Steven Spielberg Applauds New Filmmakers Kane Parsons and Curry Barker

Legendary filmmaker Steven Spielberg has voiced his support for emerging directors Kane Parsons and Curry Barker, who have made waves in the horror genre with their films, Backrooms and Obsession. As Spielberg prepares for the release of his latest project, Disclosure Day, he reflects on the success of these young talents who have managed to create impactful films on limited budgets. With Obsession becoming a box office hit and Backrooms following closely, Spielberg's praise highlights the evolving landscape of Hollywood filmmaking.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 6, 2026, 16:50 IST

Celebrating New Talent in Filmmaking

Renowned director Steven Spielberg, who has been crafting films since his teenage years, began directing television projects at the age of 23 and made his feature film debut with The Sugarland Express in 1974. His subsequent film, Jaws, released in 1975, set the standard for summer blockbusters in Hollywood. As he prepares for the release of his new film, Disclosure Day, Spielberg expressed his admiration for emerging horror filmmakers Kane Parsons and Curry Barker, who have gained significant attention with their films, Backrooms and Obsession.

Spielberg's Enthusiasm for Young Directors

During a screening of Disclosure Day, Spielberg was asked about the fresh wave of filmmakers making their mark in Hollywood. On the red carpet, he shared his excitement about the success of these young directors, who have managed to create impactful horror films on modest budgets. He remarked, "It’s fantastic that they produced such successful films with limited resources, especially Obsession, which was made for under $1 million, while Backrooms had a budget of around $10 million. Their achievements deserve applause." Spielberg mentioned that he had yet to see Backrooms but had thoroughly enjoyed Obsession.

Details on Obsession

Curry Barker, who previously created sketch comedies on YouTube, directed Obsession with a budget of $750,000. The film stars Michael Johnston and Inde Navarrette and has become Focus Features' highest-grossing film in the US, amassing $151.3 million. The story revolves around a young man named Bear (played by Johnston) who acquires a supernatural toy called One Wish Willow. His wish for his childhood friend Nikki (Navarrette) to love him spirals into a dangerous obsession. The cast also includes Cooper Tomlinson, Megan Lawless, and Andy Richter.

Insights on Backrooms

On the other hand, Kane Parsons, at just 20 years old, has made history as A24's youngest director. His film Backrooms has quickly risen to become A24's second highest-grossing film globally, earning $146.2 million. The movie is inspired by Parsons' web series and follows a furniture store owner named Clark, portrayed by Chiwetel Ejiofor, who discovers a labyrinth of rooms in the store's basement. His therapist, Mary (played by Renate Reinsve), ventures into the maze after him. The ensemble cast also features Mark Duplass, Finn Bennett, and Lukita Maxwell.