The Backrooms: From Viral Creepypasta to A24 Movie
Filmmaker Kane Parsons has transitioned “The Backrooms” from a viral internet creepypasta into a major cinematic release distributed by A24. The film, starring Chiwetel Ejiofor and Renate Reinsve, has become the most profitable title in A24’s catalog and the second-highest earning horror film of 2026.
How did the Backrooms move from a meme to a movie?
The phenomenon began with an anonymous photo posted to the 4chan forum on May 14, 2019. This image sparked a collaborative internet mythology on Reddit and various wikis, depicting a series of dangerous levels and creatures.
In January 2022, then-16-year-old Kane Parsons revived the interest by publishing “The Backrooms (Found Footage)” on YouTube. Parsons developed a personal vision of the universe through a subjective-view webseries that now spans 24 episodes.
Following the success of his YouTube channel, Kane Pixels, which has nearly 3.3 million subscribers, Parsons was approached by producers. Atomic Monster and 21 laps eventually convinced him to pursue a feature film, which A24 agreed to distribute after a pitch in late 2022.
Why is the Backrooms movie performing so well at the box office?
The film has successfully captured the Gen Z audience while expanding its reach to older generations. According to industry data, it is currently the second most profitable horror film of 2026, trailing only “Obsession,” a film directed by another YouTuber, Curry Barker.
The movie’s success is attributed to its use of “liminal spaces,” which are everyday locations that feel unsettling because they are empty. Actor Renate Reinsve compared the atmosphere to the work of David Lynch and “Blue Velvet” during a meeting at Cannes.
Parsons utilized 3D software to design the universe before transitioning to physical sets. He noted that the final tangible sets allowed him to navigate the environment “with eyes closed” due to his familiarity with the digital designs.
What is the aesthetic of liminal spaces?
Parsons describes liminal spaces as echoes in the mind that connect the viewer to the past. He stated that these images evoke childhood memories of rooms one has never visited but which feel familiar.
The film is set in the 1990s, a period Parsons believes felt less “mechanical” and “orchestrated” than the present. To honor the original meme’s history, the film’s plot is situated in the basement of a furniture store managed by Chiwetel Ejiofor.
What happens next for Kane Parsons?
Parsons has confirmed that a sequel, “Backrooms 2,” is currently in development. He expressed excitement about continuing the project while maintaining a mental distance from the massive commercial figures.
The director may not abandon digital content entirely. He is currently working on two other YouTube series titled “The Oldest View” and “People Still Live Here.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the Backrooms?
They are a popular internet “creepypasta” or urban legend based on the concept of liminal spaces—empty, familiar places that feel unsettling.
Who is the director of the Backrooms movie?
The film was directed by Kane Parsons, who first gained fame for his “Found Footage” webseries on YouTube.
Where did the original Backrooms photo come from?
The photo was taken in June 2002 during the renovation of a furniture store in Oshkosh, Wisconsin.
Do you find the concept of liminal spaces unsettling or comforting?