Backrooms: HBO Max release and box office success

Intelligence Summary
- Discover the impact of Backrooms, A24’s highest-grossing film, arriving on HBO Max on September 25, 2026.
In brief
- Backrooms, directed by Kane Parsons, is a horror film that has grossed nearly $400 million worldwide.
- The film arrives on HBO Max on September 25, 2026, with the possibility of extra footage.
- Backrooms has been well received, earning a score of 8/10 from critic Lex Briscuso.
GAME-scanner analysis
The upcoming release of Backrooms on HBO Max marks an important milestone for A24, with the film becoming the studio’s highest-grossing title to date. With an opening weekend of more than $80 million and a total worldwide haul of nearly $400 million, the movie has not only broken box office records but also drawn attention from both horror fans and critics. The film has developed a cult following, thanks in part to its distinctive style and a story rooted in the popular internet culture surrounding the Backrooms. The extra 15 minutes of footage shown in the “Everything Must Go” screenings could further boost the film’s appeal, although it remains unclear whether those scenes will also be available on HBO Max.
What does this mean for players?
For gamers and horror fans, Backrooms arriving on HBO Max is a chance to revisit this unique experience or discover it for the first time. The film has already made a strong impact on the horror and gaming communities, with themes that tap into fear of the unknown and surreal elements that also appear in many games. The possibility of extra footage could deepen fan engagement even further, especially if it offers new insights or storylines.
Timeline
August 25, 2026: Backrooms becomes available for digital rental or purchase on platforms such as Prime Video.
September 25, 2026: Backrooms arrives on HBO Max.