Kojima blown away by Backrooms links to old 2D games

The world of horror cinema often thrives on the uncanny, but sometimes, a film doesn’t just scare you—it recontextualizes your sense of reality. The recent theatrical run of <Backrooms> proves to be exactly that kind of experience, blending high-concept dread with a nostalgic, almost unsettling appreciation for simulated space.

Hideo Kojima, the king of movie reviews, didn’t hold back his enthusiasm. Describing the film, he likened its core feeling to the pseudo-3D games of the 2D era—the dawn of RPGs and the Family Computer (NES)—noting the potent sense of confinement and anxiety it evokes. Kojima praised the art direction for cleverly weaving together elements of art, architecture, and psychology into a truly immersive experience.

This appreciation for simulated spaces echoes the very foundation of <Backrooms>. Originating as an online urban legend on 4Chan in 2019, the concept explores the fear of liminal spaces—those transitional areas where monsters seem to lurk around every corner. Director Kane Parsons built upon this digital folklore with a popular web series on YouTube, laying the groundwork for the cinematic spectacle that followed.

The feature film arrived on the big screen in May 2026, proving that this internet anxiety translates powerfully to cinema. Despite being a feature debut for the 21-year-old director and utilizing a modest $10 million production budget, <Backrooms> achieved massive success, grossing over $330 million worldwide.

This staggering financial performance positions the film as a cultural phenomenon, dominating the box office by proving that deep psychological dread is a universally compelling narrative. The movie follows an employee who stumbles upon a doorway leading into an endless network of interconnected rooms, transforming a simple curiosity into an existential nightmare.

The success has only fueled further exploration of the material. Recognizing the depth of audience demand, Parsons released an extended cut, <Backrooms: Everything Must Go Edition>, which included bonus footage and offered fans an even deeper dive into the narrative structure.

This expanded release cemented the film’s place in contemporary horror discourse. The buzz surrounding the production has also positioned director Kane Parsons as a major force in Hollywood, demonstrating that when you master the art of fear and environment, your next cinematic venture is inevitable.