Inde Navarrette Says Gen Z Wants Original Films, Not Corporate Ads

Hollywood needs to stop selling and start telling stories if it wants to keep Gen Z audiences hooked on the big screen, says Obsession star Inde Navarrette.

Speaking on The Kyle Buchanan Show, Navarrette argued that younger moviegoers are growing tired of product placements and overt advertising in films. Instead, they want original storytelling that makes them feel something real.

“Gen Z just wants to go to something that they don’t feel like they’re being sold,” the actress said, adding that audiences understand advertising is part of the industry but don’t want it to dominate their moviegoing experience.

“Just because we’re living in the time of technology doesn’t mean we’re not living a human life or feel human experiences,” she added, praising Obsession for delivering an emotionally engaging, original story.

The film’s success offers a compelling case for her argument. Made for less than $1 million and released by Focus Features, the horror movie reportedly earned $522 million worldwide, turning Navarrette and co-star Michael Johnston into breakout stars. Its sustained box-office momentum and strong word of mouth also demonstrated the power of audience-driven success.

Industry data further challenges the idea that young people have abandoned theaters. According to a Fandango study reported by Variety, 87% of Gen Z respondents watched at least one movie in theaters over a year, with younger audiences averaging around seven visits annually. The study also found that Gen Z and millennials were more likely to spend on concessions and premium formats such as IMAX.

Fandango executive vice president Jerramy Hainline noted that younger audiences increasingly value the communal experience of watching movies together.

For Hollywood, the message is clear: flashy marketing and brand placements may generate revenue, but original stories and genuine human experiences can give audiences a reason to buy a ticket.