‘Obsession,’ ‘Backrooms’ Ushering in Shift Similar to ‘Easy Rider’ in 1970s, Sony Pictures Classics Co-Chief Says
The success of Kane Parsons’ “Backrooms” and Curry Barker’s “Obsession”, made by young YouTube creators, is drawing Gen Z audiences back to cinemas and prompting Hollywood to reassess theatrical filmmaking. Sony Pictures Classics co-president Michael Barker compared their impact with the industry shift associated with “Easy Rider” in the 1970s, while Academy CEO Bill Kramer described the films as evidence that online fandoms can successfully move into cinemas.
“Backrooms”, released by A24, has earned about $400 million, and Parsons is developing a sequel while resisting restrictive genre labels. Panellists argued that younger audiences are seeking freshness and a slower, more communal experience than algorithm-driven short-form content; Mattel’s Robbie Brenner also said a “Barbie” sequel is wanted and will probably happen eventually.
- YouTube-born films are bringing more young people back to cinemas.
- “Backrooms” has grossed roughly $400 million.
- Executives see a possible major shift in cinema culture.