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A24 released “Backrooms,” directed by 20‑year‑old YouTuber Kane Parsons, on Tuesday. The horror film earned $81.4 million in the United States and $118 million worldwide during its opening weekend, making it the largest debut for a first‑time director of an original picture and A24’s biggest rollout ever.
The success follows a pattern seen in recent releases. “Iron Lung,” a game‑adapted film from YouTuber Markiplier, and “Obsession,” a 2025 thriller from 26‑year‑old Curry Barker, both achieved notable box‑office gains after debuting on the platform. Merchants now view creators with built‑in audiences as a means to reach Gen Z viewers, whose theater attendance rose 25 % in 2025 according to Cinema United.
Studio representatives have expressed interest in working with online creators. North Road Films president Kori Adelson said the company produced “Backrooms” after recognizing the demand for authentic stories from younger viewers. A24 has also approached Barker to direct a remake of “The Texas Chain Saw Massacre.”
Parsons’ role as director has been confirmed by actors involved. Mark Duplass, one of the film’s stars, responded to online speculation by affirming that Parsons maintained full creative control, describing him as “intensely prepared.” No evidence has emerged to contest Parsons’ directorial credit.