The Backrooms movie poster is a whole lotta nothing (and it's perfect)
Creative Bloq
by Natalie Fear February 24, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
The Backrooms movie poster has sparked widespread confusion and debate online, with its minimalist design leaving many viewers puzzled. While some criticized the lack of imagery, others celebrated its eerie simplicity as a perfect nod to the source material's liminal horror aesthetic. Drawing inspiration from the original creepypasta lore, which describes a hauntingly bland yet unsettling environment with greenish-yellow wallpaper and an eerie hum, the poster captures the essence of the mysterious space. This deliberate absence of visual detail mirrors the internet urban legend's own enigmatic nature, making it a bold choice for fans familiar with its origins but a confusing one for others.
The Backrooms originates from an online urban legend that became a cultural phenomenon, complete with its own Reddit community and art style. The poster's design replicates the signature greenish-yellow tone and patterned wallpaper, evoking the unsettling "nothingness" central to the mythos. This approach serves as a homage to the creepypasta movement, emphasizing the importance of atmosphere over visual spectacle. While some dismissed it as plain or lazy, others appreciated its ability to convey the story's abstract, otherworldly vibe through minimalism.
For those familiar with internet culture and liminal horror, the poster is a clever nod to the source material's roots in online anonymity and shared imaginaries. Its design reflects the broader trend of horror movies embracing abstract, atmospheric storytelling over traditional scares, challenging audiences to engage their imaginations. This approach may alienate some viewers but resonates deeply with fans of the genre who value mystery and psychological tension.
The Backrooms' poster highlights a key debate in modern horror: how much should visual design reveal or conceal? While it may not appeal to everyone, its execution is a testament to the power of minimalism in conveying eerie, otherworldly themes. For design enthusiasts, it offers an intriguing study in balancing simplicity with thematic relevance, showcasing how less can indeed be more impactful in storytelling.
Ultimately, the poster's reception underscores the importance of context and cultural familiarity in modern media design. While some saw it as a missed opportunity for visual
Verticals
designart
Originally published on Creative Bloq on 2/24/2026