United Artists, Amazon MGM Studios, and Amblin Entertainment Secure Rights to YouTube Horror Franchise ‘The Mandela Catalogue’
Following the massive success of ‘Backrooms’ and ‘Obsession’, the next big YouTube horror franchise is set to make its big-screen debut. United Artists’ Scott Stuber, Amblin’s Steven Spielberg, and Amazon MGM Studios have secured the rights to ‘The Mandela Catalogue’, a viral YouTube horror series that has gained over 100 million views across its official episodes.
The Mandela Catalogue is set in the fictional Mandela County, Wisconsin, where shape-shifting, nearly immortal creatures called Alternates invade the region. Led by a false depiction of the Archangel Gabriel, the Alternates aim to wipe out the human race by psychologically torturing them to the point of suicide. The Alternates are known for manipulating AV media, TVs, computers, and GPS systems.
The series has garnered a massive following, with fans praising its unique blend of psychological horror and analog storytelling. The Mandela Catalogue has become one of the defining titles in the analog horror genre, alongside ‘Local 58’ and ‘The Backrooms’. With its success, it’s no wonder that Hollywood is keen to adapt the series for the big screen.
The film will be directed by Mandela Catalogue creator Alex Kister, based on a screenplay he adapted with Tyler Clifton. Spielberg and Holly Bario are producing for Amblin Entertainment alongside Aaron B. Koontz for Paper Street Pictures and Stuber and Nick Nesbitt for United Artists. Kister and Clifton are also producing. Annie McCreery will oversee the project for United Artists, while Maria Fortese will oversee for Amblin.
The deal was negotiated by Amazon MGM Studios and Sarah Vacchiano for United Artists. This acquisition marks a significant move by the studios to tap into the growing demand for YouTube horror content.
Paper Street Pictures is a boutique development and production house focused on high-concept, genre-bending films and series. They are known for sharp creative swings within efficient production models. Notable recent titles include ‘Shelby Oaks’ via Neon and the hit Peacock and SYFY series ‘Revival’, coming to Netflix later this summer.
Kister and Koontz are represented by Brett Rosen and Andrew Schoessel Mondragón at TFC Management and attorney Duncan Hedges. Clifton is represented by Brett Rosen and Andrew Schoessel Mondragón at TFC Management and attorney Larry Weinberg.
The acquisition of ‘The Mandela Catalogue’ is a significant step forward for the studios, and fans of the series can expect a thrilling big-screen adaptation that will live up to their expectations.
With the success of YouTube horror franchises like ‘Backrooms’ and ‘Obsession’, it’s clear that the platform is becoming a breeding ground for new talent and innovative storytelling. The acquisition of ‘The Mandela Catalogue’ is a testament to the studios’ commitment to embracing new and exciting content.
The film’s success will not only be a win for the studios but also for the fans who have been eagerly waiting for a big-screen adaptation of the series.
As the film industry continues to evolve, it’s clear that YouTube horror content is becoming a significant player in the world of entertainment. With ‘The Mandela Catalogue’ set to make its big-screen debut, fans can expect a thrilling ride that will leave them on the edge of their seats.
