Canadian filmmaker and YouTube sensation Kyle Godfrey has made a notable foray into the film industry with the release of his psychological horror short, 'Simon Says.' The project, produced under Prime Capitol Entertainment, has garnered significant attention, especially following a major seven-figure investment from Everbloom, aimed at supporting Godfrey’s creative ambitions beyond digital platforms.
Originally known for his wildly popular YouTube channel Stromedy, which boasts over 14 million subscribers and has accumulated a staggering 3.5 billion views, Godfrey's evolution into filmmaking marks a significant milestone in his career. 'Simon Says' takes a familiar character from the Stromedy universe—a mysterious clown named Simon—and places him in a gripping narrative that unfolds during a seemingly innocent birthday celebration among friends. As the plot thickens, the celebrants find themselves ensnared in a deadly game dictated by Simon, with their survival hinging on obeying his commands—each prefixed with the iconic phrase, "Simon says."
This shift from a digital creator to a filmmaker was carefully plotted by Godfrey, who co-directed the film alongside fellow digital artist Jake Dufner. They wrapped the film's production in just four days in Toronto, infusing it with the kind of harrowing suspense that audiences crave. Godfrey envisions 'Simon Says' as more than just an extension of his YouTube brand; he aims to create a standalone horror experience that can resonate with a broader audience.
In remarks about the project, Godfrey stated, "Simon has been part of the Stromedy Universe for years, and this film allowed us to craft a complete narrative around the character. We aimed to demonstrate that independent creators can leverage their online followings to produce high-quality cinematic experiences."
Everbloom's investment not only supports the growth of Prim Capitol and Stromedy but also signifies a newfound opportunity for creators to bridge the gap between the digital realm of YouTube and traditional Hollywood. Brendan Alper, co-founder and COO of Everbloom, noted, "We see tremendous potential in Kyle and Stromedy to convert their digital success into a substantial horror franchise. 'Simon Says' is just the beginning."
Set as a proof of concept for a future feature film, 'Simon Says' represents a unique intersection of online and cinematic storytelling. It encapsulates the idea that characters born from online platforms can evolve into compelling narratives while preserving the loyalty of their digital audiences. This film is not simply a horror short; it’s a strategic move toward establishing a comprehensive film slate planned for the future.
Fans and newcomers can watch 'Simon Says' streaming now on both YouTube and Tubi, paving the way for Godfrey’s promising cinematic journey. As the lines blur between YouTube stardom and film success, Kyle Godfrey’s venture is a testament to the potential for independent creators to expand their horizons and reshape their narratives in Hollywood’s landscape.
Catch 'Simon Says' on YouTube
here and on Tubi through this
link as he steps onto a larger stage, equipped with the backing of a significant investment and a passionate audience eager to see what his next chapter holds.