Full Breakdown
Spielberg Advises Rising Horror Directors on Managing Success
6/13/2026, 2:03:58 AM
Core Advice: Spielberg’s Counsel to Curry Barker and Kane Parsons
During an appearance on *The Rest Is Entertainment*, veteran filmmaker Steven Spielberg addressed the recent achievements of two young horror directors—Curry Barker, 26, of *Obsession*, and Kane Parsons, 20, of *Backrooms*. Spielberg warned that each new project should be approached as a fresh start, emphasizing that early triumphs can be fleeting and that sustained careers require humility and continual reinvention.
Background: Spielberg’s Early Breakthrough and the Directors’ Recent Hits
Spielberg’s own ascent mirrors the situation he described: he directed *Jaws* while in his twenties, a film that secured three Academy Awards and launched his long-term influence in Hollywood. Decades later, Barker’s *Obsession* (released May 15) and Parsons’s *Backrooms* (debuted May 29) have each become breakout successes, positioning the two filmmakers as the latest generation of high-profile horror auteurs.
Key Figures & Studios
- Steven Spielberg – Acclaimed director, producer, and mentor.
- Curry Barker – Director of *Obsession*, age 26, represented by Focus Features.
- Kane Parsons – Director of *Backrooms*, age 20, represented by A24.
- Focus Features – Distributor of *Obsession*, noting it as the company’s biggest film ever.
- A24 – Distributor of *Backrooms*, marking it as the studio’s highest-grossing North American release.
Data & Statistics: Box Office, Budgets, Critical Scores
- *Obsession*: $238.7 million global gross; $750,000 production budget; 94 % Rotten Tomatoes rating; highest-grossing festival acquisition in Toronto International Film Festival history.
- *Backrooms*: $220.6 million worldwide gross; $10 million production budget; 88 % Rotten Tomatoes rating; A24’s top-earning North American title.
Official Statements & Responses
Spielberg’s remarks, delivered in the interview, highlighted the necessity of treating each film as a new beginning, regardless of prior accolades. He noted that even after a major hit, filmmakers must “start over again” with each subsequent project to maintain relevance and artistic integrity. Following the interview, Barker appeared on *Today* and expressed admiration for Spielberg’s praise, stating he was “starstruck” and could not believe the endorsement.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Don’t let success go to your heads,” — Steven Spielberg, Director
- “Do not let wild success go to your heads, because when you make your next movie, you’re starting from scratch.” — Steven Spielberg, Director
- “ Popular on THR “It’s always good to have a big hit to shore up your reputation, and you’re going to get a lot of respect from executives, from the film world and from the studios.” — Steven Spielberg, Director
- “I can’t believe it,” — Curry Barker, Director (on *Today*)
Why It Matters: Implications for Emerging Filmmakers and Studios
Spielberg’s counsel underscores a broader industry lesson: early commercial triumphs can elevate a director’s standing with studios and executives, yet long-term success hinges on the ability to reinvent one’s craft continually. For studios, the advice reinforces the value of nurturing talent beyond a single hit, while for new directors it serves as a reminder to balance confidence with humility.
What’s Next
Both Barker and Parsons are expected to continue developing new projects, with industry observers watching how Spielberg’s guidance may shape their creative decisions and career trajectories.
