Backrooms (2026) Review
Directed by Kane Parsons, Backrooms offers a chilling experience that stands out in the horror genre. The film stars Chiwetel Ejiofor and Renate Reinsve, both delivering exceptional performances that elevate the story’s eerie atmosphere.
The plot begins with Clark (Ejiofor), a man struggling with his life choices, particularly his frustration over his partner’s pursuit of education. He works at a furniture store and feels the weight of the world on him when he discovers graffiti calling him a “rip-off.” In therapy sessions with Mary (Reinsve), we uncover her troubled past, adding depth to her character.
The film’s unique twist is a secret passage behind the furniture store that leads to mysterious “backrooms.” Clark and his employees venture into these unsettling spaces, filled with strange artifacts and a menacing mood. The set design effectively uses darkness and disorientation to amplify the film’s tension, resembling some found-footage horror but with a deliberate artistic flair.
Bobby, one of Clark’s employees, has an unsettling encounter when he discovers disturbing clothing in the backrooms. The film’s unique storytelling keeps viewers on edge without revealing too much too soon. Reinsve’s portrayal of Mary adds an emotional layer to the unfolding horror, leaving audiences questioning whether Clark is truly a victim or something more sinister.
As characters appear and disappear in surprising ways, the film engages viewers’ imaginations, showcasing Parsons’s talent for creating unsettling visuals. Unique characters, like a man in a wheelchair, blur the line between what is real and what is not, heightening the film’s sense of dread.
Mark Duplass makes a brief appearance but leaves a lasting impression, adding complexity to the narrative. While some plot threads remain unresolved, the film’s bold approach to horror compensates for this, creating a more immersive experience.
Parsons’s direction shines through in every frame. Each shot is meticulously crafted to evoke fear and curiosity. Despite minor pacing issues and some one-dimensional supporting characters, Backrooms succeeds in delivering a compelling horror story. It’s a journey into the human psyche’s hidden corners, echoing societal fears and personal demons.
This film speaks to the nature of fear and the secrets we hide, making it a must-watch for horror fans. With Ejiofor’s chilling performance and Reinsve’s emotional depth, Backrooms establishes itself as one of the top horror films of the year.
Rating: 9/10
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