A do-it-yourself horror movie made for only $800 has seen great success online after being released for free on YouTube. The film, called “Milk & Serial,” was created by YouTube personality Curry Barker, who took on many roles such as writer, director and actor. In just two weeks, the 62-minute “found footage” style movie has been viewed over 348,000 times.
Barker spent most of the small $800 budget on hiring an actor and buying a camera. He also sold the camera later for a $100 profit. This brought the total cost close to being covered. Critics have praised how Barker was able to tell a full story and keep viewers interested with so little money.
The movie follows two YouTubers whose online pranks turn dangerous. It explores the dark side of always needing to make exciting videos. Viewers seem to connect with its realistic filming style and portrayal of questionable online content. Horror news sites like Bloody Disgusting have recommended the film, calling it a surprise hit.
Thanks to the movie’s unexpected success, Barker is now getting attention from major industry names. Variety magazine interviewed him about making the low-budget viral sensation. Film producer James Harris, known for movies like “The Fall,” has also reached out about a possible future project. However, Barker now faces a choice between the do-it-yourself model that worked so far or trying a traditional Hollywood career.
As “Milk & Serial” continues gaining more fans online, it shows how digital platforms can give opportunities to independent creators. Whether Barker’s story leads to lasting changes in the industry or was just a unique case remains seen. But it has clearly captured interest from both audiences and professionals in the film world.
