‘It was so, so good’: Hideo Kojima reveals the Netflix movie that made him cry, and he’s not embarrassed about it

Hideo Kojima, the famous game designer who creates dark post-apocalyptic worlds, just shared that he completely broke down while watching the Netflix animated movie KPop Demon Hunters. The 62-year-old creator is best known for the Death Stranding games, where players deliver packages through empty wastelands filled with ghost-like zombie creatures called Beached Things. His games deal with heavy and intense themes, but it turns out he has a soft side.

According to Variety, Kojima posted on X this week about his emotional reaction to the film. He said he casually started watching KPop Demon Hunters, got completely hooked, and ended up crying his eyes out by the end. He later wrote a short but powerful review, saying “It was so, so good” with emotional emojis. This is a big reaction from one of gaming’s most respected creators.

The storyline was not the only thing that moved him. Kojima became obsessed with the soundtrack too. He posted an image showing he was streaming “Golden,” the huge hit song by the fictional K-pop group Huntr/x from the movie. He even retweeted a post calling “Golden” the most gigantic pop song in memory, proving its massive cultural impact.

The movie has become a massive global hit

KPop Demon Hunters is not just popular, it is officially Netflix’s most-watched movie ever. Directors Maggie Kang and Chris Appelhans created the film as a collaboration between Sony Pictures Animation and Netflix. If you have not seen it yet, you are missing out on a global phenomenon, and Kojima’s reaction proves it lives up to the hype. For more entertainment options, check out what’s new on Netflix this week.

The movie follows the Huntr/x trio, who sell out stadiums as K-pop superstars by day. When they are off stage, they use their secret identities as demon hunters to protect their fans from supernatural threats. Their biggest challenge comes from the Saja Boys, an irresistible rival boy band that are actually demons in disguise. The premise alone sounds worth watching, and Kojima’s tearful reaction serves as a top recommendation.

Netflix and Sony Pictures Animation have already confirmed a sequel because the movie became such a huge success. Fans will not have to wait too long either, as the second film is expected to arrive in 2029. It is great that this project is getting a follow-up. Netflix continues to dominate the streaming landscape, even as the Royal Family joins Netflix with their own content ventures.

Kojima can create grim post-apocalyptic worlds and still get teary-eyed over a K-pop demon hunter movie. You have to respect someone who can embrace both sides like that. It is also refreshing to see a game design legend known for deep philosophical and dark experiences show such honest love for something emotional and fun.