Spielberg's Advice: Young Directors Must Start Anew

Steven Spielberg, drawing from his extensive filmmaking career, has offered guidance to two highly successful young directors, Cory Blaney and Kane Parsons. Spielberg, who was in his twenties when he helmed the Oscar-winning "Jaws," was asked to advise Blaney, director of "Obsession," and Parsons, director of "Backrooms."

His primary counsel was simple yet profound: "Don't let success go to your heads." Spielberg elaborated that while a major hit can bolster a director's reputation and garner respect from studios, each subsequent project represents a new beginning. He noted that filmmakers often find themselves starting over at the outset of every single endeavor.

Both "Obsession" and "Backrooms" have demonstrated exceptional commercial success. "Obsession," released on May 15, has earned $238.7 million globally on a $750,000 budget, setting records for festival acquisitions and Focus Features. Meanwhile, "Backrooms," which debuted on May 29, has grossed $220.6 million worldwide against a $10 million budget, becoming A24's highest-grossing film in North America.

Blaney recently expressed his admiration for Spielberg's comments on "Today," calling the praise "starstruck." The advice from Spielberg highlights the enduring challenges and continuous learning inherent in a filmmaking career, regardless of early triumphs.