Backrooms release tied to A24’s highest grossing movie
A24’s psychological horror feature, Backrooms, has successfully transitioned from the big screen sensation to the streaming era. Following a phenomenal theatrical run, the film is set to stream exclusively on HBO Max”>HBO Max starting September 25, 2026, offering audiences access to the bizarre, endless world that captivated viewers during its release.
The film’s journey begins with a deeply unsettling premise rooted in the very concept that inspired its creation: an endless, extra-dimensional labyrinth of yellow rooms and long, forgotten corridors. The story centers on Clark, a furniture store owner and failed architect, who stumbles upon a portal in his basement that leads directly into this spectral reality. After a terrifying escape, Clark attempts to process his experience, but the truth remains elusive.
The narrative deepens when Clark confides in his therapist, Dr. Mary Kline, about his encounter. While Mary maintains a degree of skepticism, her world is ultimately shaken when she receives a cryptic message from Clark suggesting he will never return. This mystery pushes Mary to confront the unknown, leading her to venture into the Backrooms herself to experience the true, visceral horror of the place.
Backrooms is the directorial debut of Kane Parsons, who brought his vision to life, working alongside writer Will Soodik. The film expertly blends science fiction and psychological horror, drawing inspiration from Parsons’ own web series and the notorious 2019 creepypasta.
The ensemble cast brings compelling performances to the unsettling landscape. Chiwetel Ejiofor plays Clark, while Renate Reinsve portrays Dr. Mary Kline. The supporting cast includes Mark Duplass, Finn Bennett, Lukita Maxwell, Avan Jogia, Robert Bobroczkyi, and Krista Kosonen, all contributing to the film’s unique atmosphere.
Commercially, the film was an undeniable triumph. It grossed a worldwide total of $396.5 million against a remarkably modest budget of less than $10 million. Its impact was so profound that in its second week, Backrooms became A24’s highest-grossing film to date, establishing Parsons as the youngest filmmaker to reach the top spot at the box office.
Critics have weighed in strongly, awarding the film an impressive 87% score on Rotten Tomatoes, based on positive reviews from 303 critics. The critical acclaim solidifies the film’s place as a landmark entry in the genre.
While the theatrical release was a massive success, director Kane Parsons has already signaled an interest in expanding the unsettling universe of the Backrooms with future projects. Although a sequel has not yet been announced, the foundation for further exploration in this strange, extra-dimensional world is firmly set for the future.
Buy on Amazon
Credit
