Most individuals now understand that online creators wield considerable power and influence, yet this does not always imply that they can readily transfer their skills to different entertainment formats. For creators KallMeKris and Celina Spooky Boo, whose real names are Kris Collins and Celina Myers, they have made a remarkable transition from online content creation to producing a feature film set to debut in theaters this week.
Collins, Myers, and editor Jason-Christopher Mayer are the primary forces and cast behind “House on Eden,” a found-footage horror film making its theatrical debut on Friday. Despite their enormous TikTok followings, writer/director Collins (51 million followers) and Myers (29 million) recognize that having a substantial online audience does not guarantee a platform or audience for a movie, but it definitely aids. The trio filmed the movie in just seven days, utilizing their backgrounds as creators, and now possess a major film. They connected with Mashable over Zoom for the Creator Playbook series to discuss their shift from content creation to filmmaking. (The discussion has been condensed and edited for clarity and brevity.)
**How did you decide to transition from online creation to producing a feature film?**
**Collins:** We all became friends within the creator community. Celina and I met roughly five years ago when we both got started. Jay and I connected about four years ago when he began editing for me. He has also been involved in the traditional space. So when we began collaborating, it felt like a natural evolution. We enjoyed making videos and frequently adopted a cinematic style in our paranormal clips. We thought, “What if we could truly control the narrative?” It grew from that point.
**Myers:** Our ambition has always been to accomplish something like this.
**Mayer:** Absolutely. [Laughs.] We were creating ghost-themed videos, and one thing led to another. And here we are.
**What was your filmmaking process like?**
**Collins:** We discussed it for at least a year or two, quite casually. We declared our intention to create a horror movie at VidCon 2023, almost to hold ourselves accountable. At that moment, we had no plans, but we thought, “If we announce it, we must follow through.” A few months later, I had a sudden movie idea late at night and began sending voice memos to these guys. We drafted a rough outline and attempted to film, but had to postpone. We ultimately filmed nearly a year ago. It all transpired within a year, which is incredible. The filming occurred within a week.
**That must have been quite the week.**
**Myers:** It was really exciting. We gathered in Texas before shooting and reviewed everything. There was a moment when we questioned if we could complete it in a week, and everyone was like, “Challenge accepted.”
**As creators, how did those skills transfer to creating a feature film?**
**Collins:** Those skills were beneficial in making a found footage film—it’s not easy, but it was advantageous. We followed the structure of our paranormal videos and made it more cinematic through timing, sound, and framing. We opted for found footage because it was lower budget, enabling us to have a smaller team and film it ourselves. It resembled a YouTube video we could manage.
**Myers:** We wanted to dip our toes in and attempt this for the first time. Found footage felt comfortable.
**As you step into this realm, how has the audience’s response been?**
**Collins:** Our followers have always sought something greater from us. Audiences enjoy watching creators evolve. It is anticipated for creators to keep pushing the envelope. There exists a ceiling in digital creation, so breaking into traditional media has been exciting. I believe the audience values that.
**How do you plan to convert that digital audience into theater-goers?**
**Myers:** It’s entertaining since we are influencers with a platform. We figured out how to market the film to connect best with our audience, utilizing trending sounds or familiar content. It’s enjoyable to promote “House on Eden” in humorous ways because we are recognized for comedy.
**What are your feelings with the film’s release on Friday?**
**Collins:** The anticipation has been wild because, as digital creators, we can create something one day and share it the next. It has been nerve-wracking, but I’m eager to release it. I care about the audience’s opinions, but I also want it out there.
**Myers:** [In a deep, raspy voice] Let’s get it out there, baby!
**Mayer:** It’s unusual for an independent film made for around $10,000 to be released on over 1,500 screens across America. I’m interested to see the horror community’s reaction, as they are a dedicated fan base. Kris and Celina have a vast audience, but the horror realm is a different beast. I’m excited.