Celebrity Perspectives on Horror and Existential Fears at TIME100 Next
Industry figures share their cinematic preferences and personal anxieties during the Halloween season.
1Gala Event Context
The 2026 TIME100 Next Gala, held on October 29 in New York City, served as a backdrop for cultural discussions. Presented by sponsors including Rolex, Toyota, and the Project Management Institute, the event gathered influential figures to discuss seasonal themes, specifically their deepest personal fears and favorite horror films.
2Classic Horror Preferences
Attendees highlighted a diverse range of cinematic influences during the event. Actor Cooper Hoffman identified the classic Rosemary’s Baby as a top recommendation, while Dominic Sessa pointed toward Resident Evil. These selections reflect a broad spectrum of horror appreciation, spanning from foundational genre staples to more contemporary, high-intensity gaming-inspired media.
3Modern Filmmaking Insights
Filmmaker Curry Barker, recognized for his work on Obsession, demonstrated extensive genre knowledge by citing A Nightmare on Elm Street and Hereditary. Barker is currently developing a new project titled Anything But Ghosts, scheduled for release next May, indicating a continued professional focus on the horror genre within the industry.
4Existential Media Anxiety
Comedian Chloe Fineman offered a departure from traditional horror, identifying real-world platforms as her primary source of dread. She explicitly labeled Instagram as a personal horror movie, suggesting that for some public figures, the constant stream of news and social media engagement creates a more profound existential fear than fiction.
5Supernatural Personal Experiences
Joey King, who appeared in Practical Magic 2, discussed her personal relationship with the supernatural. She noted that while she experienced frightening events in her youth, she now attempts to embrace these sensations. Despite this, she remains hesitant to consult mediums, fearing the potential revelation of her own future life path.
6Genre Diversity Trends
The contrast between Conan Gray’s preference for the cozy film Practical Magic and the darker selections of other attendees highlights the subjective nature of seasonal entertainment. This variety underscores how different creative professionals navigate the Halloween season, balancing lighthearted nostalgia with the more intense, visceral experiences provided by traditional horror cinema.
7Industry Professional Engagement
The involvement of major corporate sponsors like Target and American Airlines at the gala illustrates the intersection of high-profile media events and brand partnerships. By facilitating these cultural conversations, the event provides a platform for talent to share personal insights, which helps humanize public figures beyond their professional screen roles.
8Psychological Impact Analysis
The discourse at the gala reveals a shift in how media professionals perceive fear, moving from scripted horror to digital-age anxieties. As creators like Barker continue to produce new content, the industry remains focused on exploring the thin veil between entertainment and reality, reflecting broader societal concerns regarding modern digital consumption.
Original article: TIME — Celebrity Perspectives on Horror and Existential Fears at TIME100 Next