YouTube Star Chris Stuckmann's Horror Debut Shelby Oaks Divides Critics

In a significant career transition, popular YouTube movie reviewer Chris Stuckmann has made his directorial debut with the horror film Shelby Oaks. The film, which mixes elements of found footage and traditional filmmaking, has received a divided critical response since its recent theatrical release.

Shelby Oaks, which has been praised by horror auteur Mike Flanagan, follows the story of a woman searching for her missing sister, who was part of a group of YouTube paranormal investigators. The film has been described as a "horror film for the YouTube generation," reflecting Stuckmann's own background as a longtime online movie critic.

While some critics have praised Shelby Oaks as a unique and engaging entry in the genre, others have found it to be a "checklist of clichés." However, the film has found more enthusiastic support from digital-native outlets that regularly cover horror, suggesting a generational divide in how the work is received.

Stuckmann's personal experiences have also left their mark on the film. The director has been open about his upbringing as a Jehovah's Witness and the crisis of faith he experienced in his youth. These themes of religion and cult-like control are reflected in the supernatural elements of Shelby Oaks, with Stuckmann acknowledging that he was drawing from "some of the darker places" of his past.

Despite the mixed critical response, Stuckmann's transition from YouTube critic to filmmaker has been a significant milestone. The director's Kickstarter campaign for the film broke records for the horror genre, raising over $1.3 million from a dedicated fan base. With Shelby Oaks now in theaters, Stuckmann's journey from online influencer to professional director has taken a major step forward.