The horror movie scene is buzzing this weekend, largely due to the YouTube-to-film trend. The top spot at the box office goes to “Backrooms,” a film based on Kane Parsons’ popular YouTube series. This unique horror flick showcases chilling found-footage clips featuring a strange, physics-defying office space, inspired by an eerie thread from 4chan.
Coming in second is “Obsession,” which made about $8 million on Friday. While it may not sound as strong at first, this film is showing remarkable staying power. It has already earned more in its second weekend than its first, with a projected increase of 19% in its third weekend. Typically, films drop 50-70% in their second weekend, making “Obsession” a standout. In fact, it’s the first film since 1982 that has grown in both its second and third weekends.
Both films highlight a trend where filmmakers are transitioning from YouTube to mainstream cinema. Director Curry Barker, known for his hour-long horror film “Milk & Serial,” is behind “Obsession.” Meanwhile, he’s also working on a remake of “The Texas Chainsaw Massacre.”
Earlier this year, “Iron Lung,” directed by Mark Fischbach (also known as Markiplier on YouTube), surprised many by grossing nearly $41 million. This surge in success for YouTube creators makes them quite the topic in media circles. In a recent New York Times article, Mark DelVecchio, general manager at Rutgers Cinema, noted that many YouTubers have struggled to make a seamless transition to film. But Parsons, Barker, and Fischbach stand out due to their dedication and loyal fanbase, cultivated over years of consistent content creation.
While I haven’t caught “Backrooms” yet, I did see “Obsession,” and it certainly lived up to the hype. I found myself covering my eyes during the scariest parts, and yes, I might have screamed a bit. It’s a thrilling experience that reflects the blending of new media and traditional filmmaking.
This trend isn’t just a flash in the pan. According to a recent survey by The Hollywood Reporter, 76% of viewers aged 18-34 are more likely to support films made by creators they already follow online. That means the path from YouTube to the silver screen is likely to keep evolving, with audiences eager for more from their favorite creators.
Source link
backrooms,Curry Barker,Kane parsons,obsession,YouTube
