‘Backrooms’ Turns an Online Obsession Into Box-Office Gold
Jun 12, 2026
Summary
This episode explores how internet-born horror films like Backrooms and Obsession are revitalizing Hollywood by attracting Gen Z audiences. Host Jessica Mendoza discusses how these low-budget, authentic movies, created by digital-native filmmakers, are challenging the dominance of traditional franchises. The success of these viral hits signals a shift toward originality and offers new hope for the struggling box office industry.
Topics discussed
Intro: Gen Z and the Backrooms movie phenomenon
Show intro and sponsor ads
The origins of the Backrooms internet myth
Kane Parsons and A24's Backrooms film success
Obsession: Another viral Gen Z horror hit
Why horror works for Gen Z audiences
Ad break: Voicemails for Isabel
Hollywood's shifting box office trends
Summer blockbusters and the mindset shift
The future of cinema and authenticity
Optimism for the movie industry's future
Outro: World Cup special and credits
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