Amidst the growing list of indie horror-comedy films, Onyx the Fortuitous and the Talisman of Souls stands out not only for its quirky characters and campy narrative, but also for the way it balances ambition with budget. Directed by Andrew Bowser and based on his viral internet persona, Onyx the Fortuitous, the film serves as a love letter to fans of classic horror and cult cinema. With a strong online following and a unique creative voice, the film gained traction through crowdfunding efforts. Exploring how a movie like this came to life on a limited budget offers a fascinating glimpse into the world of independent filmmaking.
The Origins of Onyx the Fortuitous
From Internet Meme to Movie Star
Onyx the Fortuitous began as a humorous internet character portrayed by Andrew Bowser, known for his awkward delivery, gothic appearance, and comedic satanic enthusiasm. His satirical interviews and skits found massive popularity on platforms like YouTube and TikTok. The character was a parody of misunderstood horror nerds and occult enthusiasts, and his bizarre charm quickly turned into a cult fascination.
As Onyx’s popularity grew, the idea of turning this character into a full-length film emerged. However, studio support was hard to come by for such a niche concept. That’s when Bowser turned to fans for help launching a crowdfunding campaign that ultimately made the movie possible.
The Budget Story
Kickstarter and Independent Funding
One of the most notable aspects of Onyx the Fortuitous and the Talisman of Souls is that it was largely funded through Kickstarter. Andrew Bowser launched the campaign in 2021, and within just 30 days, it raised over $600,000. This was a significant achievement, especially considering the film had no backing from a major production studio. The campaign emphasized Bowser’s passion for 80s and 90s horror aesthetics, practical effects, and comedy rooted in character-driven storytelling.
While $600,000 may seem like a considerable amount, it’s modest by film industry standards. Most feature-length films cost millions to produce. Yet, Bowser and his team used this indie film budget wisely focusing spending on practical effects, detailed set designs, and a committed cast and crew that believed in the project.
Smart Budget Allocation
Where the Money Went
Managing an indie film budget requires strategic decision-making. Here’s a breakdown of how the Onyx the Fortuitous production team likely allocated its budget:
- Production Design: The film’s gothic set pieces and eerie lighting are central to its atmosphere. A significant portion of the budget likely went into creating the elaborate environments that reflect Onyx’s occult fantasy world.
- Practical Effects: Rather than relying on expensive CGI, the film features old-school horror effects, puppetry, and makeup. These practical elements not only add authenticity but also help manage costs.
- Cast and Crew Salaries: While the film features mostly up-and-coming talent, fair compensation remains crucial. The passion project nature of the film allowed Bowser to collaborate with people who valued creativity over high pay.
- Post-Production: Editing, sound design, and music scoring are essential components that require time and funds. Post-production took months and required specialized software and personnel.
- Marketing and Distribution: A portion of the Kickstarter budget was likely reserved for marketing, film festival submissions, and independent distribution efforts.
Creative Limitations as a Strength
Making the Most of Every Dollar
Rather than seeing a limited budget as a constraint, Andrew Bowser used it as a creative opportunity. The film embraces its campy, low-budget roots, echoing the spirit of 80s horror movies like Evil Dead II and Re-Animator. Sets are exaggerated, characters are theatrical, and the script leans into absurdity. The result is a film that feels lovingly handcrafted rather than artificially polished.
Bowser’s experience as a filmmaker and internet content creator allowed him to wear many hats. He directed, wrote, starred in, and co-produced the film. This hands-on approach reduced labor costs and ensured that the final product stayed true to his original vision.
Cast and Fan Community
Support Beyond the Screen
The Onyx the Fortuitous film also succeeded thanks to its community. Many backers were fans of the original videos and felt emotionally invested in bringing Onyx’s world to life. This grassroots support not only funded the movie but also built a ready-made audience eager to promote and share the film upon release.
The cast included a mix of new faces and cult-favorite performers. Olivia Taylor Dudley, Jeffrey Combs, and Barbara Crampton added horror credibility, while newcomers brought fresh energy. This blend of experience and enthusiasm made for a cohesive ensemble despite the budgetary constraints.
Festival Debut and Reception
Sundance Spotlight
Onyx the Fortuitous and the Talisman of Souls premiered at the Sundance Film Festival in 2023. For an indie film funded via Kickstarter, debuting at such a prestigious venue marked a major achievement. It garnered praise for its unique tone, humorous script, and nostalgic visuals. Critics highlighted how the film turned its modest budget into a virtue rather than a limitation.
Audience response was equally enthusiastic. Fans appreciated that Bowser stayed true to the character’s origins while expanding the universe. The film became a celebration of indie creativity, proving that with enough heart and vision, even a small budget can yield big entertainment.
Distribution and Beyond
Streaming and Cult Status
Following its festival run, the film saw limited theatrical release and eventually became available through streaming platforms. While it may not have had a wide box-office run, its online presence grew steadily. As more fans discovered Onyx through social media, the movie continued to gain traction.
The film now stands as a cult favorite, especially among viewers who appreciate the blend of horror, comedy, and internet-era irony. Its budget-conscious production has become part of its charm, serving as an inspiration for aspiring filmmakers navigating the indie scene.
A Testament to Independent Vision
More Than Just a Meme
Onyx the Fortuitous and the Talisman of Souls exemplifies what can be achieved when passion meets planning. With a budget under $1 million, Andrew Bowser managed to create a feature-length film that looks, feels, and entertains like a well-crafted love letter to cult horror. From Kickstarter beginnings to festival acclaim, the film proves that an original voice, a committed fan base, and smart budgeting can bring even the strangest internet dreams to life.
In a media landscape often dominated by franchises and massive budgets, Onyx the Fortuitous reminds us of the joy of discovery and the power of independent storytelling. Its budget may have been modest, but its imagination was limitless.