A24 plunges into psychological horror with 'backrooms'

A24 is poised to deliver a disquieting cinematic experience this summer with 'Backrooms,' a psychological thriller directed by Kane Parsons, marking his feature film debut. The film, anchored by a compelling performance from Chiwetel Ejiofor, promises a descent into unsettling territory, and the recently released trailer offers a glimpse into the labyrinthine dread awaiting audiences.

A familiar premise, a singular execution

The film draws its foundation from Parsons’ 2022 short film of the same name, but expands upon its premise with a significantly larger scope. The narrative centers on Clark, a man grappling with personal anxieties who attends therapy. His life takes a bizarre turn when he discovers a concealed door within the basement of a furniture exhibition. Stepping through, he finds himself trapped within a uniquely unsettling space—an endless, disorienting maze.

Initially dismissing Clark's claims as delusions, his therapist becomes increasingly intrigued as the situation escalates. To prove the reality of his experience, Clark enlists the help of friends, documenting their exploration with a camera. But when Clark vanishes within the labyrinth, the therapist embarks on a desperate search, uncovering a reality far more disturbing than she could have imagined.

The ensemble cast surrounding Ejiofor includes Renate Reinsve, Mark Duplass, Finn Bennett, Lukita Maxwell, Avan Jogia, and Chelah Horsdal—a collection of talented actors who promise to elevate the film’s already unsettling atmosphere. Parsons’ ability to cultivate such a strong ensemble for his debut speaks volumes about the project's potential.

The trailer, now available for viewing, provides a tantalizing taste of the film’s atmosphere and visual style. While details remain scarce, the pervasive sense of unease and the unsettling architecture of the 'Backrooms' are immediately apparent. The unsettling, almost sterile environment combined with the psychological torment of the characters suggests a film that will burrow under the skin.

’Backrooms’ is slated for release in Spanish cinemas on June 5, 2026. The film’s success hinges on Parsons’ ability to translate the minimalist horror of his short into a fully realized feature, and whether he can tap into the primal fear inherent in the concept of inescapable, liminal spaces.