Australian YouTubers and twins Danny and Michael Philippou, known for their viral antics, made a significant leap into the film industry with their debut feature, “Talk To Me,” released two years ago. This supernatural thriller, centering on a group of teens from Adelaide who become entangled in a sinister party game, surprised audiences by grossing nearly $100 million worldwide, despite a modest budget of just $4.5 million. The film quickly became A24’s most successful horror offering and earned the Philippous accolades, being hailed by the Hollywood Reporter as a refreshing addition to the genre.
Following the success of “Talk To Me,” a sequel titled “Talk 2 Me” is currently in development, but before that, fans can look forward to their new film, “Bring Her Back,” which hits theaters in Australia and the US this week. This chilling story follows young siblings Andy and Piper as they adjust to life in a foster home run by the troubled Laura, played by acclaimed actress Sally Hawkins. The film promises to delve deeper into psychological horror, with the Philippous aiming to elevate their craft beyond their earlier, more chaotic content.
Reflecting on their journey, Danny notes how they have transitioned from making reckless YouTube videos to crafting narratives that showcase intelligent horror. Both brothers acknowledge their humble beginnings, having started with no connections to the film industry in South Australia. Their persistence and volunteer work on various film sets, coupled with Danny’s participation in clinical drug trials for support, laid the groundwork for their future in film.
Their commitment to their roots is evident as they opted to film “Bring Her Back” in South Australia, despite having relocated to Los Angeles in 2019. They express a strong desire to maintain a production base in their home state, emphasizing the importance of comfort and authenticity over high-profile opportunities in Hollywood.
While initially excited about directing a Hollywood adaptation of the video game “Street Fighter,” the Philippous ultimately walked away, prioritizing projects aligned with their creative vision. They’ve also faced challenges like their preliminary footage for “Talk To Me” being taken down for being too graphic, a learning experience in the nuances of content distribution across platforms.
The brothers are also exploring other projects, including a documentary on deathmatch wrestling, which reflects their long-standing interests in both film and extreme performance art. Despite their focus on horror, they also express a desire to return to comedy and action in future projects.
The Philippous’ evolution from YouTube sensations to acclaimed filmmakers demonstrates a remarkable journey of growth and determination, and there is much anticipation for what they will create next as they continue to balance innovation with their roots in horror and comedic storytelling.