Kane Parsons brings his internet horror series to the cinema through a failing furniture-store owner and his therapist. The film’s strongest qualities are its oppressive spaces and unsettling sound design; its deliberate pacing and unanswered questions make it better suited to viewers who enjoy ambiguity. This is a spoiler-light review.
For major spoilers, read our Backrooms ending explanation.
Story and Plot
Clark discovers a doorway beneath his furniture showroom and becomes obsessed with the space beyond it. When he disappears, his therapist Mary follows him into the Backrooms, where familiar places and memories become disturbingly unreliable.
Rather than providing easy answers, the screenplay embraces mystery. The narrative unfolds gradually, allowing audiences to piece together clues while maintaining the unsettling ambiguity that made the original Backrooms concept so popular.
Direction and Atmosphere
Parsons builds suspense through long takes, careful camera movements and minimal dialogue. The empty corridors give viewers time to search the frame for a threat, making the architecture feel hostile before anything appears.
That patience is effective, but it also determines the film’s appeal: viewers looking for constant action may find the pauses frustrating.
Visuals and Sound Design
Visually, Backrooms is remarkably effective. The repetitive architecture, dim fluorescent lighting, and sterile office environments create an unforgettable sense of isolation. Although the locations appear ordinary at first glance, their endless repetition transforms familiar spaces into something deeply disturbing.
The sound design is equally impressive. Constant electrical buzzing, distant echoes, and carefully placed silence become essential storytelling tools. Instead of overwhelming viewers with loud musical cues, the film uses subtle environmental sounds to maintain tension throughout nearly every scene.
Cast and Performances
The performances provide the emotional foundation that keeps the film grounded despite its surreal setting. Chiwetel Ejiofor delivers a restrained yet emotionally compelling performance as Clark, portraying fear, confusion, and determination with remarkable authenticity. Renate Reinsve complements him perfectly, bringing intelligence and emotional depth to Mary’s character.
Their believable chemistry prevents the film from becoming purely conceptual and gives audiences someone to connect with emotionally while navigating the strange world around them.
Strengths and Weaknesses
The movie’s greatest strength lies in its confidence. Rather than trying to explain every mystery, it trusts viewers to embrace uncertainty. Fans of atmospheric horror will appreciate its commitment to slow-burning suspense, immersive world-building, and psychological storytelling.
However, the film’s deliberate pacing may not satisfy audiences expecting nonstop action or traditional monster-focused horror. Some narrative questions also remain intentionally unanswered, which will divide viewers depending on their expectations.
Read our internet origins and adaptation coverage for background on the film.
Final Verdict
Backrooms is strongest when its ordinary architecture becomes threatening. The atmosphere and central performances justify the slow pace, although viewers seeking clear answers may find the mystery frustrating.
Rating: 9/10
For official trailers and information, visit the Backrooms film website or A24’s Backrooms page.
