The Great Horror Hunt: Why Hollywood’s Obsession With Gen Z-Friendly Hits May Be Misguided

The recent box office successes of “Backrooms” and “Obsession” have sent shockwaves through Hollywood, with studio executives scrambling to find their next big horror hit. But as the industry frantically searches for its next obsession, it’s worth examining the underlying assumptions driving this quest.

Peter Kuplowsky, Midnight Madness programmer at the Toronto Film Festival, has a unique perspective on what’s happening in the world of horror cinema. His late-night showcase at TIFF is always a hotbed of new talent and fresh perspectives, and this year’s lineup looks particularly exciting. Films like Joshua Giuliano’s “River” – a survival slasher that brings together modern scream queens Jane Levy and Jessica Rothe – and Nick Kozakis’ action horror thriller “Kick On” are poised to introduce audiences to the next generation of horror filmmakers.

The term “Gen Z-friendly” is often used to describe these films, but what does it really mean? Is it simply a matter of using social media-savvy marketing strategies, or do these movies genuinely speak to the concerns and anxieties of young people today? Kuplowsky’s comments on his Midnight Madness lineup suggest that he believes the latter – that what sets these films apart is their willingness to push boundaries and take risks.

This emphasis on originality and boldness is crucial in an era where horror cinema has become increasingly homogenized. With the rise of streaming platforms and online creators, it’s easier than ever for audiences to access a wide range of horror content – but this also means that the market is flooded with familiar tropes and tired conventions. To truly stand out, horror filmmakers need to be willing to take risks and challenge their viewers in new and unexpected ways.

Kuplowsky argues that studio executives should look beyond what’s playing well on YouTube and online platforms to breakout horror filmmaking talent. By prioritizing innovative storytelling and bold new perspectives over formulaic, market-tested hits, the industry can ensure that it stays ahead of the curve – rather than merely chasing after the latest trends.

Of course, this approach won’t always pay off in terms of box office returns or awards season recognition. But as Kuplowsky points out, “Obsession” and “Backrooms” were successful precisely because they captured something unique and authentic about their target audience – not because they replicated a formula that had already been proven to work.

This year’s Midnight Madness lineup is particularly notable for its emphasis on ultra-independent horror films that push against the boundaries of traditional genre storytelling. Films like “Kick On” and “River” showcase a new wave of filmmakers who are willing to take risks and challenge their viewers in bold, unapologetic ways.

Making a film that truly resonates with audiences requires a level of commitment and dedication that’s rare in today’s fast-paced culture. However, the rewards are well worth it: by pushing against the limits of what’s possible within the horror genre, these filmmakers are creating movies that feel truly alive, pulsating with energy and emotion.

However, as we celebrate the bold new perspectives and innovative storytelling on offer in Midnight Madness’s lineup, it’s also worth examining the darker side of this trend. With the rise of online creators and social media-savvy marketing strategies, horror cinema has become increasingly homogenized – with many films prioritizing style over substance, and relying on familiar tropes and conventions to grab attention.

This emphasis on style over substance can lead to formulaic, predictable storytelling – and ultimately, a homogenization of the horror genre that erases its most innovative and exciting voices. Kuplowsky’s comments suggest that this is precisely what’s happening in today’s horror cinema landscape.

As we look ahead to the future of horror cinema, it’s clear that there are several key trends at play. On the one hand, we’re seeing an increasing emphasis on ultra-independent filmmaking – with more and more filmmakers opting to self-fund their projects and push against the boundaries of traditional genre storytelling.

On the other hand, the rise of online creators and social media-savvy marketing strategies has created a culture of instant gratification – where attention spans are short, and success is measured in likes and shares rather than genuine artistic merit. It’s a precarious balancing act, but one that holds the key to unlocking new possibilities for horror cinema as a whole.

As we close out this editorial, it’s worth pausing to consider the enduring legacy of horror cinema – a genre that has captivated audiences for generations with its ability to tap into our deepest fears and anxieties. From the classics of Universal Studios to the innovative storytelling of modern filmmakers like Jordan Peele and Robert Eggers, horror cinema has always been about pushing against the limits of what’s possible – and exploring new ways to terrify, provoke, and inspire.

As we look ahead to the future of this genre, it’s clear that there are many challenges on the horizon. But with Midnight Madness’s lineup serving as a testament to the power of innovative storytelling and bold new perspectives, it’s also clear that horror cinema is in good hands – poised for another thrilling ride into the unknown, where anything can happen, and the boundaries between reality and nightmare are forever blurred.