A new film titled 'Backrooms' is generating significant buzz, with critics suggesting it could herald a new era for internet-inspired horror cinema. Directed by 20-year-old filmmaker Kane Parsons, the movie brings to life the eerie concept of 'liminal spaces' that originated from the online forum 4chan.
The film features a notable cast, including British Oscar-nominated actor Chiwetel Ejiofor, known for his roles in '12 Years a Slave' and 'Doctor Strange', and Norwegian actress Renate Reinsve, who gained international acclaim for her performance in 'The Worst Person in the World'. Their involvement lends significant weight to a project helmed by such a young talent.
'The Backrooms' concept, which began as a creepypasta on 4chan in 2019, depicts an endless maze of empty, yellow-wallpapered rooms and fluorescent lights, evoking feelings of nostalgia, disorientation, and unease. Parsons' film explores this unsettling aesthetic, tapping into a genre that has resonated deeply with online communities for years.
Reviewers have highlighted the film's ability to translate a niche internet phenomenon into a compelling cinematic experience. Its exploration of psychological dread through deserted, uncanny environments is seen as a refreshing departure from traditional horror tropes, potentially inspiring a new generation of filmmakers to draw from digital culture.
The project represents a significant leap for Parsons, whose previous work on the 'Backrooms' concept primarily consisted of short, experimental videos uploaded to YouTube. His transition to a feature-length film with established actors underscores the growing influence of online creative communities on mainstream entertainment.