Hollywood has seen countless films flop at the box office only to find redemption on streaming platforms. Michael Fassbender’s The Snowman (2017), which grossed just $31 million globally and holds a dismal 7% on Rotten Tomatoes, became a Netflix sensation in April 2023, climbing to the top of its charts. Similarly, Ridley Scott’s Exodus: Gods and Kings (2014) gained global traction on Netflix years after its release. These examples prove streaming breathes new life into films by bypassing ticket sales pressure. Now, Sony’s Kraven the Hunter (2024) joins this list, defying its disastrous theatrical performance to dominate Netflix charts.

A Marvel villain’s origin story, panned by critics and ignored in theaters, has become a streaming sensation. How did Kraven the Hunterclaw its way back?

Kraven the Hunter debuted on Netflix on March 13 and instantly ranked as the second most-watched film in the US, trailing only The Electric State. The movie, which starred Aaron Taylor-Johnson as the titular antihero, had previously flopped in theaters, earning $62 million globally against a $110–130 million budget. Critics savaged its 15% Rotten Tomatoes score, calling its pacing chaotic and visual effects uninspired. Yet, audiences embraced it, awarding a 73% Popcornmeter score.

Fans praised Taylor-Johnson’s magnetic performance, particularly a viral chase scene where Kraven sprinted barefoot in linen attire. Many argued the film surpassed recent Marvel misfires like Madame Web, which itself climbed Netflix charts after a dismal box-office run, calling it a guilty pleasure. The gritty backstory of Kraven’s feud with his crime-lord father (Russell Crowe) and battles against foes like Rhino resonated with viewers seeking darker superhero narratives. While critics dismissed it as forgettable, streaming audiences deemed it a flawed but fun entry in Sony’s Spider-Man Universe.

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Behind the streaming triumph lies a convoluted origin story, both for Kraven and the film itself.

Directed by J.C. Chandor, Kraven the Hunter reimagined Sergei Kravinoff’s journey from traumatized son to vengeful vigilante. The plot followed Kraven’s transformation after a serum granted him animalistic powers, his alliance with Calypso (Ariana DeBose), and clashes with villains like Rhino (Alessandro Nivola). Despite its ambitious scope, the film’s theatrical release was reportedly marred by competition from holiday blockbusters and superhero fatigue.

Netflix’s algorithm likely boosted the film by targeting fans of antihero sagas and Marvel adjacent content. Its streaming success could influence Sony’s Spider-Man Universe, which has struggled outside Venom. While no sequel is confirmed, the renewed interest highlights how streaming platforms redefine success for studios prioritizing eyeballs over box office.

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Did Kraven the Hunter deserve its second chance? Share your take on its Netflix revival below!