Young moviegoers in New York are embracing the box office success of two YouTube directors over Steven Spielberg's latest release. Interviews in Washington Square Park reveal a preference for original, low-budget films from emerging voices.
Curry Barker's Obsession and Kane Parsons' Backrooms have dominated the summer box office. Obsession grossed more than $334 million globally on a $750,000 budget. Backrooms earned $81.4 million in its opening weekend on a $10 million budget.
Spielberg, whose Disclosure Day opened June 12, praised the young filmmakers and said he loved Obsession. Audience data shows Backrooms drew 86 percent of viewers under 35, while Disclosure Day attracted 59 percent over 35.
Students interviewed said they value practical effects and new talent. They noted that filmmakers like Barker reply to fans on social media, unlike established directors.
