How Gen Z filmmakers are conquering the box office with low-budget horror
By
The Economist
More crust than filling. Mostly air.
Summary
Two low-budget horror films created by young YouTubers—Curry Barker's "Obsession" (made for under $1M, grossed $230M) and Kane Parsons's "Backrooms" (made $215M, making Parsons the youngest filmmaker to top the US box office)—have achieved massive commercial success, revealing what resonates with Gen Z audiences and their fears.
Key quotes
· 5 pulled"Obsession" is Curry Barker's second film, made with a minuscule budget of under $1m (his first was made for only $800).
Since opening in cinemas "Obsession" has grossed $230m.
"Backrooms", meanwhile, is Kane Parsons's debut feature film, adapted from a viral web series.
The movie has made over $215m; Mr Parsons has become the youngest-ever film-maker to open a flick in America in the top-grossing spot.
What's behind their breakout success?
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