Unlocking the Success of Demi Moore’s ‘The Substance’: What Makes This R-Rated Hit a Sensation in Korea?

After a successful run in theaters, *The Substance* has eclipsed 500,000 viewers in Korea, a remarkable feat for an R-rated independent film.

As of February 24, the Korean Film Council reported that *The Substance* had attracted an impressive audience of 500,854 people. It reached the half-million milestone just 74 days after its release, making it only the fourth R-rated indie film in Korean history to achieve this.

A Surprising Hit

Though it has an arthouse vibe, *The Substance* has held strong box office rankings. This success is due to positive word-of-mouth and critical praise. As it heads toward the 97th Academy Awards on March 3, its momentum may increase even further. The film has been nominated for five major awards:

• Best Picture
• Best Director
• Best Actress
• Best Original Screenplay
• Best Makeup & Hair Styling

Demi Moore Shines

Demi Moore, the lead actress, won her first Golden Globe for Best Actress for her role in this film, generating Oscar buzz that could boost ticket sales even more.

Global Acclaim

*The Substance* has gained international recognition, amassing 286 nominations and winning 115 awards worldwide. This gripping thriller delves into the conflict between “Me and the Better Me,” showcasing striking visuals and bold storytelling.

Korean Connection

Korean actor So Ji-sub’s involvement as a co-producer has also heightened interest in the film within Korea’s entertainment landscape.

The *Korean Film Council* reported that on its sixth day, *The Substance* ranked fifth at the box office, generating nearly 50 million KRW. The cumulative audience surpassed 400,000 viewers, affirming its place among the top films.

Box Office Rankings (As of the 6th):

• 1️⃣ *Hitman 2* – 2,114,547 total viewers
• 2️⃣ *Broken* – 66,736 total viewers
• 3️⃣ *Secret: Untold Melody* – 436,245 total viewers
• 4️⃣ *Dark Nuns* – 1,516,774 total viewers
• 5️⃣ *The Substance* – 401,972 total viewers
• 6️⃣ *Harbin* – 4,880,233 total viewers
• 7️⃣ *The Fall: Director’s Cut* – 104,507 total viewers
• 8️⃣ *Pororo Movie: Underwater Adventure* – 393,563 total viewers
• 9️⃣ *Love Live! Nijigasaki High School Idol Club: The Final Chapter Part 1* – 1,703 total viewers (New release)
• 🔟 *Pokémon Movie AG: Lucario and the Mystery of Mew* – 152,319 total viewers

With its unexpected longevity at the box office, *The Substance* is proof that independent films can defy expectations. If it wins an Academy Award, its popularity may soar even higher.

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