A24's latest horror sensation, Backrooms, has officially become a box office juggernaut, earning a staggering 10 times its modest $10 million budget in just its first three days of release. The film, which opened to a massive $100 million domestic weekend, is already being hailed as one of the most profitable horror movies of the year.
Directed by 20-year-old prodigy Curry Barker, Backrooms has captivated audiences with its eerie, liminal-space aesthetic and nerve-shredding tension. The film's success is a major win for A24, the indie studio known for elevating genre fare like Hereditary and The Witch. With a global opening of $118 million, Backrooms has shattered records and even outperformed major studio releases like The Mandalorian & Grogu.
A New Horror Milestone
The $100 million domestic opening is a rare feat for a horror film, especially one with a budget under $15 million. Backrooms now joins the ranks of unforgettable horror hits that have turned small investments into massive returns. The film's success is a testament to the power of original storytelling and effective marketing, which leveraged the viral "backrooms" internet mythos to build anticipation.
Box office analysts note that Backrooms has benefited from strong word-of-mouth and repeat viewings, with audiences drawn to its unique visual style and unsettling atmosphere. The film's opening weekend is the biggest ever for an A24 horror movie, surpassing Talk to Me and Hereditary.
What's Next for A24 and Curry Barker?
With Backrooms already a cultural phenomenon, all eyes are on Curry Barker, who has become the youngest director to helm a $100 million opener. A bidding war has erupted for his next project, with studios eager to capitalize on his newfound fame. A24, meanwhile, is riding high on a wave of critical and commercial success, with upcoming releases like Supergirl and Summer of Three generating buzz.
For horror fans, Backrooms is a must-see, and its box office dominance proves that audiences are hungry for fresh, inventive scares. As the film continues to expand internationally, it's poised to become one of the highest-grossing horror movies of the decade.
Stay tuned to ShowtimeSpot for more updates on Backrooms and other breakout hits. If you're looking for more spine-tingling recommendations, check out our list of 7 upcoming horror movies ranked by anticipation.
