WARNING: This article contains spoilers for teh conclusion of “Shelby Oaks,” currently screening in theaters.
The question on everyone’s mind: Who is responsible for the disappearance of Riley Brennan?
In his directorial debut, Chris Stuckmann presents “Shelby Oaks,” a chilling narrative centered around the vanishing of Riley Brennan (played by Sarah Durn), a novice ghost hunter and YouTuber. Transitioning from his previous role as a film critic and essayist on YouTube, Stuckmann crafts a horror film that seamlessly integrates various media formats, often resembling a mockumentary pulled straight from online platforms.
Camille Sullivan portrays Mia Brennan, who has been tirelessly searching for her sister Riley after she mysteriously disappeared 12 years ago in the secluded town of Shelby Oaks with her YouTube team known as the Paranormal Paranoids. the film initially unfolds like a fictional documentary about Riley’s case but soon evolves into an eerie supernatural thriller that employs found footage and scripted frights in ways that set it apart from typical studio productions. It evokes comparisons to “The Blair Witch Project” but is tailored for today’s digital audience, leveraging Stuckmann’s extensive experience on social media to its fullest potential.
Insights from Variety
in an interview with Variety, Stuckmann reflects on his roots in YouTube filmmaking, discussing how he utilized vintage camcorders to achieve an authentic aesthetic.
The Inspiration Behind ”Shelby Oaks”
I wanted to ensure I had multiple scripts ready so producers wouldn’t have the chance to reject me outright. I wrote around six or seven spec scripts and attended numerous film festivals where I networked extensively with other filmmakers. This effort eventually led me to connect with someone who coudl help bring my project to life after what felt like ages trying.When I met Aaron Koontz at Improbable Fest in 2019,I was prepared with several pitches; “Shelby Oaks” was what piqued his interest most significantly.
Selecting Darke County as Your Setting
I aimed to find an intriguing location within Ohio for my story setting. While Shelby Oaks itself is fictionalized, discovering Darke County—with its artistic flair suggested by its name—felt perfect given its rural backdrop. Many of my spec scripts are set there; it has become somewhat of a mini cinematic universe that may expand further down the line.
Merging Mockumentary Style with Scripted Horror
Having been active on YouTube since 2009 allowed me insight into viewer preferences—people enjoy watching others react or engage with content directly. There’s something captivating about experiencing emotions alongside another person onscreen; Mia serves as this emotional conduit throughout our narrative journey. The blend of different media types reflects how we consume content today across platforms like TikTok and conventional television alike.
A Full Mockumentary Version Considered?
The initial concept was entirely mockumentary-based due to budget constraints—I envisioned self-financing it for around $20K and releasing it directly onto YouTube because waiting felt unbearable at times! However, as writing progressed organically evolved into something more complex than originally intended; thus we explored various storytelling avenues while maintaining authenticity thru our chosen format.
Nostalgic Jump Scares Inspired by Early Internet Culture
I believe these jump scares draw inspiration from early internet culture—the creepypasta era included many memorable moments that shaped our understanding of fear through digital mediums over time! We’re witnessing filmmakers now drawing influence not just from cinema but also online experiences which resonate deeply within audiences today—like those classic unsettling videos you might remember watching late at night!
A Bleak Ending: Intentional or Open-Ended?
The ending was always meant to leave viewers unsettled—a hallmark characteristic shared among many beloved horror films! While some producers may request alterations during development phases due diligence remains essential when crafting narratives designed specifically elicit strong emotional responses long after viewing concludes!
The Emotional Core Behind “Shelby Oaks”
When traumatic events occur during youth they can leave lasting scars if left unaddressed—this theme resonates throughout both characters’ journeys culminating visually represented via symbolic imagery such as cracked windows reflecting unresolved issues festering beneath surface level interactions between them.
YouTubers Transitioning Into Filmmaking: A New Era?
It’s incredibly exciting witnessing peers like Danny Philippou gain recognition following their humble beginnings online! Back when I started out back in ’09 Hollywood didn’t take us seriously—but now influencers populate red carpets everywhere showcasing how far we’ve come collectively over recent years!
If only platforms existed decades earlier perhaps iconic directors would’ve emerged sooner than later!