The series has since amassed well over 100 million views across its 19 episodes, the first installment of the series having 11 million views alone, cementing itself as one of the defining titles of the genre alongside Local 58, The Walten Files, Gemini Home Entertainment, and more.
But despite its success, its selection for a Hollywood adaptation has sparked debate among YouTube analog horror fans, with some arguing that other analog series—like the ones listed above—should take priority given the controversy surrounding Kister.
In March 2024, Kister became the subject of online controversy after allegations circulated on social media accusing him of inappropriate behavior involving fans, including claims of grooming and boundary violations. Kister denied the allegations, calling them false and defamatory, and said he would address them in further detail, which he later did, denying both the grooming claims and that the series was fetish content.
The situation sparked widespread discussion across the analog horror community, with fans divided over the claims and fellow creators unsure about their ties with Kister, resulting in the crew of The Mandela Catalogue to quit and a terminated deal for a VHS release of the series with Retro Release. Later, in April, one of the accusers retracted the allegations, which led to Kister promising that the series would continue.
Still, the project underscores the turning point for horror as a whole, as another successful adaptation could open the door wider for more analog horror and internet-native storytelling to be adapted for film.
At the same time, it raises questions about how these stories will translate beyond their original format going forward, with analog horror relying on fragmented storytelling, low-fidelity presentation, and audience interpretation that do not always map neatly into traditional cinematic structure.
