What's Happening?
The film 'Backrooms', directed by Kane Parsons, delves into the eerie concept of liminal spaces, which are transitional or in-between spaces that evoke a sense of unease. These spaces, often characterized
by their lack of identity and historical context, are explored through the narrative of architect Clark, played by Chiwetel Ejiofor, who discovers a portal to these 'backrooms' in his showroom. The film, produced by A24, builds on Parsons' previous work on YouTube and uses advanced visual effects to create a world that is both familiar and unsettling. The concept of liminal spaces is tied to the idea of 'junkspace', a term coined by architect Rem Koolhaas to describe the homogeneity and lack of character in modern architecture.
Why It's Important?
The exploration of liminal spaces in 'Backrooms' taps into a broader cultural and architectural critique of modernism and industrialization, which have led to the creation of spaces that are devoid of identity and human connection. This film highlights the psychological impact of such environments, drawing parallels to real-world issues of urbanization and the loss of unique cultural spaces. By turning architecture into a source of horror, 'Backrooms' challenges viewers to reconsider the spaces they inhabit and the societal trends that shape them. The film's success could influence future cinematic portrayals of architecture and space, encouraging more nuanced and critical perspectives.
