All About Kane Parsons, the 20-Year-Old Behind Viral Sensation-Turned-Horror-Hit “Backrooms”

**Kane Parsons: The Youngest A24 Director Bringing ‘Backrooms’ to Life**

Kane Parsons, at just 20 years old, has become the youngest filmmaker in the storied history of A24, stepping into the director’s chair for the upcoming indie horror film “Backrooms.” The highly anticipated feature is set for release on May 29 and is expected to capture the attention of horror fans this summer.

Parsons first gained widespread recognition as a DIY creator on YouTube, where he produced a compelling series called “The Backrooms (Found Footage).” This viral project drew inspiration from a chilling meme that originated on the internet forum 4chan in 2019. In his original series, Parsons explored eerie and disconcerting liminal spaces that became a hallmark of the “creepypasta” genre—an internet subculture dedicated to sharing frightening stories.

The series portrayed a fictional 1990s research institute that stumbles upon the Backrooms, documenting the unsettling, vacant areas filled with an ominous ambience. Drawing parallels to the cult favourite “The Blair Witch Project,” Parsons’ found-footage style drew viewers into a world that blurred the lines between reality and the supernatural.

Reflecting on his journey, Parsons remarked to IndieWire, “I’ve been a very online person most of my life,” highlighting that he was born the same year YouTube was launched. He developed a passion for visual effects early on, teaching himself how to use various software by sharing resources online. “I would pirate VFX software and started learning After Effects at the age of 11,” he recalled, demonstrating his dedication to mastering his craft.

After garnering attention for his work during his final year of high school, Parsons found himself at a crossroads: pursue higher education or seize the opportunity to direct a feature-length adaptation of “The Backrooms.” With numerous lucrative offers from production companies, including A24, he made the bold decision to enter the world of Hollywood, opting to defer his college plans. “It felt like a new avenue that was still risky,” he explained, acknowledging the uncertain nature of the entertainment industry.

The film “Backrooms” stars an impressive cast, featuring Renate Reinsve, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Mark Duplass, Finn Bennett, Lukita Maxwell, and Avan Jogia. The production team includes some heavyweights of the genre, with well-known figures like James Wan, Shawn Levy, and Osgood Perkins serving as producers. The film’s premise is intriguing, succinctly summarised as: “A strange doorway appears in the basement of a furniture showroom.”

In a recent conversation with GQ, Parsons revealed some of the artistic influences behind his work, citing shows like “Utopia” and “Mr. Robot,” alongside his appreciation for open-world video games and ambient music. It’s evident that his creative vision has been shaped by a range of media, allowing him to draw inspiration from diverse sources.

Despite his youth, Parsons has received scrutiny over his age and experience. In an interview with The Independent, he expressed some fatigue with the ongoing focus on being a young director. “I have found some of the most talented people online… people who are five times more technically competent than I could ever hope to be… they’re 13 years old,” he asserted, asserting that talent can emerge from any age group.

As the release of “Backrooms” approaches, Duplass took to social media to defend Parsons amid speculation about the young director’s involvement in the film. Addressing comments suggesting Parsons was not adequately directing, the veteran actor stated, “Hmmm, with all due respect I don’t remember seeing you on set. When I was there, Kane was 100% in control. More so than many directors three times his age.”

Film enthusiasts and horror aficionados alike anticipate the arrival of “Backrooms” in cinemas, as Parsons makes his mark on the industry. The release not only signifies the realisation of his creative vision but also encapsulates the shifting landscape of filmmaking, where young talent increasingly breaks through the traditional barriers of the industry.

As Kane Parsons prepares to celebrate his 21st birthday shortly after the film’s debut, he embodies the future of cinema—showcasing that age is just a number when it comes to creativity and storytelling within the world of film. With “Backrooms” ready to hit theatres, all eyes will be on this young director as he embarks on what promises to be a thrilling journey in the horror genre.