A24’s ‘Backrooms’ Horror Film From 20-Year-Old Director Kane Parsons Divides Critics

A24’s latest horror release Backrooms is generating strong early buzz ahead of its theatrical debut, with critics offering a wide range of reactions to the adaptation of the viral internet horror phenomenon.

Directed by 20-year-old filmmaker Kane Parsons and produced by genre heavyweights James Wan and Osgood Perkins, the film marks a high-profile expansion of Parsons’ original YouTube series that first gained massive attention online.

The film also features a notable cast including Chiwetel Ejiofor, Renate Reinsve, Mark Duplass, Finn Bennett, and Lukita Maxwell, with a screenplay written by Will Soodik.

Strong Box Office Expectations

Early tracking suggests Backrooms could open with $45–50 million domestically, potentially marking the strongest opening in A24’s history. The film arrives during a strong period for horror releases, following recent genre success stories that have drawn both critical and audience attention.

As of early reviews, the film holds a strong Rotten Tomatoes score in the high 80s, reflecting generally positive but varied critical reception.

Story Inspired by Viral Internet Horror

The film follows therapist Dr. Mary Kline, played by Renate Reinsve, who is pulled into a mysterious alternate dimension after one of her patients disappears into it. The story expands on the unsettling concept popularized in Parsons’ original online series, which built a large following through its minimalist, liminal-space horror aesthetic.

Mixed Critical Reception

Critics have been divided on the film’s execution, particularly its balance between atmosphere and narrative clarity.

Some reviews praised the film’s experimental tone and unsettling visuals. Others, however, questioned whether its abstract structure maintains tension over its runtime.

One major review noted that while the film builds eerie tension early on, its sense of mystery can become less effective as the story progresses, with ambiguity sometimes replacing narrative cohesion.

Another critic described the film as closer in tone to surreal psychological cinema than traditional horror, emphasizing its dreamlike and disorienting structure over conventional scares.

However, some reviewers appreciated its willingness to prioritize mood and unease rather than relying on predictable jump scares, noting that it may appeal strongly to fans of experimental horror.

Audience Reaction and Performance

Early audience reactions have also highlighted a split response, with some viewers praising its originality and others feeling its pacing and structure may be more effective in short-form format, similar to its original web-based origins.

Despite the divided opinions, the film’s unusual approach and viral origins have made it one of the most discussed horror releases of the season.

A Breakout Moment for Kane Parsons

At just 20 years old, Kane Parsons has drawn significant attention for successfully transitioning a viral online concept into a major studio feature backed by A24 and leading horror producers.

Whether viewed as a bold experimental success or a challenging adaptation, Backrooms has firmly positioned itself as one of the most talked-about horror films of the year.