Local 58 vs. The Backrooms

Attribute	Local 58	The Backrooms
Medium	Web series	Creepypasta
Theme	Horror, mystery	Existential dread, surreal
Setting	Local television station	Endless, monotonous rooms
Creator	Kris Straub	Unknown

Introduction

Local 58 and The Backrooms are two popular internet horror series that have gained a significant following in recent years. Both series have captivated audiences with their unique storytelling and eerie atmospheres. In this article, we will compare the attributes of Local 58 and The Backrooms to explore what sets them apart from each other.

Storytelling

Local 58 is known for its found footage style storytelling, presenting viewers with a series of fictional broadcasts from a mysterious television station. The series uses a combination of audio and visual cues to create a sense of unease and suspense. On the other hand, The Backrooms takes a more immersive approach to storytelling, placing viewers in a seemingly endless maze of interconnected rooms. The series relies on the exploration of this surreal environment to build tension and fear.

Atmosphere

Local 58 excels at creating a sense of dread through its use of minimalist visuals and unsettling audio cues. The series often leaves viewers with a feeling of unease long after watching an episode. In contrast, The Backrooms relies on its claustrophobic setting and eerie ambient sounds to build a sense of isolation and fear. The series creates a haunting atmosphere that lingers with viewers even after they have finished watching.

Character Development

Local 58 focuses more on the events and phenomena presented in its broadcasts rather than on developing specific characters. The series leaves much of the backstory and motivations of its characters ambiguous, adding to the overall mystery and intrigue. On the other hand, The Backrooms features a more personal narrative, following the experiences of individual explorers as they navigate the strange and dangerous world of the backrooms. This allows for a deeper exploration of character motivations and relationships.

Visuals

Local 58 uses a combination of live-action footage and animation to create its distinct visual style. The series often employs simple yet effective visual effects to enhance the sense of unease and horror. In contrast, The Backrooms relies on its detailed set design and practical effects to bring its surreal environment to life. The series uses lighting and camera angles to create a sense of disorientation and confusion for viewers.

Themes

Local 58 explores themes of paranoia, government conspiracy, and the unknown. The series often delves into the darker aspects of human nature and the consequences of unchecked power. On the other hand, The Backrooms focuses on themes of isolation, survival, and the unknown. The series examines the psychological toll of being trapped in a seemingly endless and hostile environment.

Conclusion

While Local 58 and The Backrooms share some similarities in their use of horror and suspense, they each offer a unique and compelling viewing experience. Local 58 excels at creating a sense of dread through its found footage style storytelling and minimalist visuals, while The Backrooms immerses viewers in a surreal and claustrophobic environment. Both series have garnered a dedicated fan base and continue to push the boundaries of internet horror storytelling.