The Next Hollywood Breakouts
The Hollywood Reporter • • entertainment
Key Points:
- The horror film industry is increasingly turning to YouTube creators as a source of fresh directing talent, with studios scouting online platforms for the next big horror hit.
- Recent successes include Curry Barker’s "Obsession," which has grossed over $111 million in its third week, and Kane Parsons' "Backrooms," which has surpassed $100 million domestically.
- These directors, like Barker and Parsons, have built their reputations online before transitioning to feature films, following the paths of others such as the Philippou brothers ("Talk to Me") and David Sandberg ("Lights Out").
- YouTube-born horror directors are noted for their ability to produce compelling films on extremely low budgets while appealing to Gen Z audiences who are easily distracted.
- This trend highlights a shift in how horror filmmakers are discovered and developed, emphasizing digital platforms as incubators for new talent and innovative storytelling.