The upcoming live-action film "The Backrooms," directed by 20-year-old creator Kane Parsons, is an adaptation of his YouTube short film series launched in 2022. The original series, comprising 25 videos, has amassed over 197 million views and become a definitive work in online horror. However, star Chiwetel Ejiofor revealed that during filming, he wasn't particularly focused on the project's viral success, nor did he feel pressure from fan expectations. 
Ejiofor, known for his roles in Marvel films, told GamesRadar+ that he didn't have strong feelings about the project's viral status. He simply found it to be a fascinating world worth exploring, populated with compelling characters. He believes the true uniqueness of "The Backrooms" lies in its ability to tap into a deep psychological emotion that is difficult to articulate but instinctively felt.
"As you just mentioned, it has a very deep psychological resonance. It's almost like something you feel is on the tip of your tongue, but you can't quite articulate it, you know? It's an emotion you haven't truly put into words yet." 
"Kane seems to be exploring a realm that combines memories, emotions, the past, successes, failures, and everything you carry throughout life. I just think that's remarkable. That's what I truly invested in when we were making this film, and Kane appears to have a complete grasp of that feeling," Ejiofor stated.
The film's story follows Ejiofor's character, Clark. After being kicked out by his wife, he resides in a furniture store in Santa Clara Valley. One night, as the store's power flickers erratically, he descends to the basement to check the circuit breakers and inadvertently steps into "The Complex," a bizarre, seemingly infinite space filled with endless corners.
Further Reading:Before A24's "The Backrooms" Hits Theaters: A Deep Dive into Kane Pixels' Unlayered "Backrooms Universe" from 4chan Meme to the Big Screen
Unlike the original series, which largely focuses on ordinary people accidentally "clipping" into the Backrooms and the mysterious Async organization investigating its origins, the film will delve deeper into Clark's psychological reactions to this space, drawing in psychotherapist Dr. Mary Kline.
Renate Reinsve, who plays Dr. Mary Kline, also revealed that Parsons' meticulous attention to details like wiring, lighting, and wallpaper colors allowed the actors to focus on their characters' emotional journeys. 
"Everything was incredibly well thought out. As a result, the entire filming process truly felt completely guided by Kane, allowing us to relax and fully immerse ourselves in our characters' emotional journeys," Reinsve said.
"The Backrooms" is set to premiere in North America on May 29, 2026.
via： GamesRadar+