United States filmmaker breaks global box office records
PUBLISHED Jun 4, 2026, 2:56 PM ET
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LOS ANGELES, United States – Independent horror films "Backrooms" and "Obsession" have topped the global box office, surpassing the latest installment of the long-running "Star Wars" franchise on opening weekend, according to industry data. Both projects were directed and produced by independent, social media–native creators, marking the first time such productions have held the top two positions worldwide at the same time. Twenty-year-old filmmaker Kane Parsons, who first gained recognition on YouTube, directed "Backrooms," which analysts cite as the biggest opening ever for an original horror film and the first number-one global release by a director of his age. The strong performance of "Backrooms" and "Obsession" has drawn attention from studio executives, market analysts and trade publications such as the Hollywood Reporter, which describe the outcome as unprecedented in recent box office history. Observers say the results indicate a shift in audience preferences away from traditional studio tentpoles toward projects developed by online creators and expanded into theatrical features. Parsons has discussed his creative process in recent media interviews, emphasizing his roots in digital content and stating that he does not plan to rely on artificial intelligence tools in his filmmaking. Industry analysts are examining how these creator-led horror titles, built on existing digital followings, may influence future production, marketing and distribution strategies for independent films.
By Emily Rhodes | JQJO News
Timeline of Events
- Early 2020s Kane Parsons builds YouTube following
- Recent months indie horror projects complete production
- Opening weekend "Backrooms" releases in theaters worldwide
- Same weekend "Obsession" launches global theatrical release
- That weekend both films surpass latest Star Wars
- That weekend "Backrooms" sets original horror opening record
- Following days analysts note shifting audience preferences
- Currently Parsons engages major media on film success
News Intelligence
- The success of "Backrooms" and "Obsession" shows a shift in audience preferences. People are leaning towards indie films by online creators. If you're a fan of horror or indie films, this could mean more variety in the future.
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