Kane Parsons is directing "Backrooms," a feature-length expansion of his viral web series, making him the youngest director in A24 history [1].
This transition from internet content creation to a major independent studio marks a significant shift in how traditional cinema scouts talent. By leveraging a pre-existing digital audience, the project bridges the gap between algorithmic virality and prestige filmmaking.
Parsons, who is 20 years old [1], first gained recognition as a filmmaker and creator on YouTube. His original web series established a distinct aesthetic of liminal spaces and psychological horror that attracted millions of viewers online. The new film aims to capitalize on that viral success to reach a broader global audience [1], [2].
Produced by the U.S. independent studio A24, the film is slated for release later in 2026 [1], [3]. The project allows Parsons to scale his vision from short-form digital clips to a cinematic experience. The studio has a history of supporting unconventional narratives, and this partnership places Parsons in a lineage of avant-garde horror directors.
During the production process, Parsons sought guidance from experienced industry professionals. He said Osgood Perkins was a "Great Mentor Figure" [3].
While the film's specific plot details remain under wraps, the project is expected to maintain the eerie, unsettling atmosphere that defined the original series. The collaboration highlights A24's strategy of integrating digital-native creators into the traditional studio system to capture younger demographics [2].
“Kane Parsons is directing "Backrooms," a feature-length expansion of his viral web series”
The appointment of a 20-year-old YouTube creator as an A24 director signals a broader industry trend where digital proof-of-concept—such as viral series—serves as the new traditional portfolio. This shift allows studios to mitigate financial risk by partnering with creators who have already validated their intellectual property and aesthetic appeal with a massive, built-in audience.
