Commentary: To understand Gen Z, look not to Hollywood but to indie horror films

To truly understand Generation Z, one should look not to Hollywood blockbusters but to the burgeoning world of indie horror films. Undergraduate Zara Waseem argues that these niche productions, such as 'The Backrooms' and 'Obsession,' effectively capture and translate the specific anxieties and insecurities of young people into potent horror narratives.

Waseem suggests that these films resonate deeply because they mirror the unique pressures and uncertainties faced by Gen Z. Unlike mainstream horror that might rely on broader fears, indie productions often delve into more personal and contemporary sources of dread, making them a more accurate reflection of the generation's psyche.

By exploring these independent horror films, Waseem believes we gain a more authentic insight into Gen Z's worldview. The genre's ability to transform everyday insecurities into terrifying scenarios offers a unique lens through which to view the generation's cultural landscape and emotional experiences.

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Backrooms and Obsession turn Gen Z insecurities into sources of horror.