They learned filmmaking on YouTube, have grossed $300 million with their movies, and have achieved one thing: outdo Star Wars

Three horror films by YouTube-born creators in their 20s and 30s crossed $300 million in domestic box office in 2026.

Kane Parsons' Backrooms posted A24’s biggest opening ever, while Obsession stayed strong and Mark Fischbach’s Iron Lung broke out after an independent release.

The trend shows internet-built audiences can turn low-budget horror into major hits, even outpacing newer franchise entries like The Mandalorian and Grogu.

Studios may need to rethink how they discover talent and market films to younger, online-native viewers.