LOS ANGELES, CA – Critically acclaimed animated features Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba Infinity Castle and Netflix’s breakout hit KPop Demon Hunters are set to be honored at the 4th Annual Celebration of AAPI Cinema & Television. The Critics Choice Association (CCA) announced the full slate of honorees for the event, which will take place on November 14, 2025, in Beverly Hills, celebrating standout performances and groundbreaking work from the Asian Pacific entertainment community.
Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba Infinity Castle Secures International Animation Award
The highly anticipated Japanese anime feature film, Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba Infinity Castle, will be presented with the International Animation Award. This latest installment in the globally beloved franchise has not only captivated audiences but has also made history as the highest-grossing anime film of all time at the global box office. Its recognition by the Critics Choice Association’s AAPI Cinema & Television Awards marks a significant moment for the film, highlighting its monumental impact and the growing global influence of anime.
The Demon Slayer franchise, based on Koyoharu Gotouge’s manga, has consistently broken records and garnered immense critical and fan adoration. The “Infinity Castle” arc, a pivotal and visually stunning part of the saga, has been a highly anticipated cinematic event.
KPop Demon Hunters Recognized for Innovative Animation
Netflix’s original animated film KPop Demon Hunters will receive the Animation Award, with particular recognition for its director and writer, Maggie Kang. The film has been a monumental success, amassing over 300 million views worldwide and dominating Spotify charts with its original soundtrack.
KPop Demon Hunters distinguishes itself by infusing Korean lore with the vibrant world of K-Pop culture. The story follows a girl group, HUNTR/X, who secretly battle creatures from the underworld, blending energetic music performances with compelling supernatural action. The film has been lauded for its unique narrative, dynamic animation, and its successful fusion of Korean mythology and pop culture, which has resonated deeply with a global audience. This recognition underscores the film’s innovative storytelling and its significant cultural footprint.
Celebrating AAPI Excellence in Entertainment
The 4th Annual Celebration of AAPI Cinema & Television is an initiative by the Critics Choice Association to honor the rich contributions of the Asian Pacific community to film and television. This year’s ceremony will also celebrate a diverse group of talents across various categories.
Other Notable Honorees
Among the other distinguished individuals being celebrated are:
- Lucy Liu, who will receive the Trailblazer Award for her extraordinary body of work in film and television.
- Academy Award-winning director Chloé Zhao, to be honored with the Vanguard Award for her outstanding contributions to cinema, including her work on Focus Features’ Hamnet.
- HIKARI will accept the Director Award for her work on Searchlight Pictures’ Rental Family.
- Michelle K. Sugihara, Executive Director & CEO of CAPE (Coalition of Asian Pacifics in Entertainment), will receive the Industry Leadership Award for her tireless advocacy for authentic representation.
- Thomas Pa’a Sibbett is recognized with the Social Impact Award for his work on Apple TV+’s Chief of War, elevating Indigenous narratives.
- Ali Ahn will be honored with the Supporting Actress Award for Series, Chase Sui Wonders with the Breakthrough Actress Award, and Lukita Maxwell with the Rising Star Award.
This event continues to champion equity, access, and authentic representation, showcasing the powerful impact of AAPI voices in the entertainment industry.
