Backrooms, the sci‑fi horror film released in May 2026, exploded at the box office, pulling in $81.5 million domestically over its opening weekend. The movie, distributed by A24, was helmed by 20‑year‑old director Kane Parsons, who now holds the record as the youngest filmmaker to top the U.S. box office. Despite rampant speculation, Parsons told The Town with Matt Belloni podcast that a sequel is not on the horizon, calling the idea a hallucination.

Backrooms' $81.5 million opening shatters A24 records

The film’s $81.5 million domestic haul set a new benchmark for A24, surpassing the indie studio’s previous best opening weekend. According to the source, the opening day alone generated $38.4 million, a figure that underscores the movie’s broad appeal beyond niche horror fans. Industry analysts note that the strong performance reflects a growing appetite for high‑concept, low‑budget horror that can compete with blockbuster franchises.

20‑year‑old Kane Parsons becomes youngest #1 director

Parsons, who was only 20 when he took the helm , now joins a short list of teenage directors to claim the top spot at the American box office. the source highlighted that his achievement makes him the youngest filmmaker ever to reach number one, a milestonne that could open doors for other young creators seeking studio backing . Critics have praised his ability to blend claustrophobic set design with a compelling narrative, a skill that many seasoned directors struggle to master.

Parsons dismisses sequel rumors as hallucination

When asked about the buzz surrounding a possible sequel, Parsons said the reports “seem more like a hallucination.” In the interview with The Town with Matt Belloni podcast, he emphasized that no sequel plans are currently in development and that the studio has not green‑lit any continuation. this denial comes desptie fan petitions and speculative articles that have fueled expectations for a follow‑up.

Will any studio greenlight a Backrooms sequel?

Even though Parsons has ruled out a sequel for now, industry insiders wonder whether A24 or another studio might pursue the franchise without his involvement. The source did not provide any comment from A24, leaving the question of future development open. If a sequel were to materialize, it would likely face the challenge of matching the original’s blend of psychological terror and sci‑fi intrigue.

Open question: Who owns the Backrooms intellectual property?

The article does not clarify which entity holds the rights to the Backrooms universe, a detail that could determine whether a sequel is possible without Parsons. without clear ownership information, fans and investors are left guessing about the long‑term prospects of the franchise.