The world of architecture and its unique spaces can often mirror the complexities of the human mind, and this is precisely what we explore in our discussion of the film 'Backrooms'.
The Enigmatic Liminal
'Liminal' is a term that has become a buzzword, evoking a sense of the unknown and the ambiguous. It describes spaces that are neither here nor there, like the maze-like corridors of inner-city cinemas or the enigmatic rooms of an Ikea store. These liminal spaces are a fascinating reflection of our modern, often disorienting, world.
Architecture's Residual Spaces
For architects, liminal spaces are often an afterthought, the leftover areas that don't quite fit into the grand design. Yet, these spaces have taken on a life of their own, becoming an aesthetic category, a late-capitalist fascination. It's a taste that's acquired, much like an appreciation for the beauty of scaffolding or the complex works of Messiaen.
Backrooms: A Cult Phenomenon
'Backrooms' is a film with an intriguing origin story. It began as a cult YouTube series, created by a teenage director, Kane Parsons, who used his skills with graphics software to explore the concept of liminal spaces. The series evolved into a full-length feature, a psychological thriller that delves into the mind of a disappointed architect.
Mental Breakdown on Screen
The film's protagonist, an architect-turned-furniture-salesman, experiences a mental breakdown, a descent into a surreal world of unfinished, disjointed spaces. It's a reflection of the anxieties of our time, the fear of becoming obsolete in a world driven by AI. The more time our protagonist spends in these backrooms, the more he becomes trapped, a victim of his own environment.
A Troubling Analogy
The analogy between the protagonist's experience and the act of 'doom-scrolling' is a troubling one. It highlights the repetitive nature of insanity, a concept that applies not just to the film's psychiatric themes but also to the process of its creation. Parsons' obsessive, monomaniacal approach to filmmaking is a fascinating contrast to the AI-driven world we're moving towards.
Youth and Precocity
The success of 'Backrooms' and its young director has raised many questions. How did a teenager secure the funds for such an ambitious project, and how did it become such a commercial success? Parsons' maturity and articulate nature in interviews provide a glimpse into his talent and potential. Architects would do well to take note of this emerging talent and his unique approach to filmmaking.
A Warm Bath of AI
In an age where AI is becoming increasingly prevalent, Parsons' insistence on creating physical sets and taking the time to produce his work is a refreshing contrast. It's a reminder of the value of human creativity and the importance of slowing down in a fast-paced world. His approach is worthy of recognition, perhaps even an honorary fellowship.
Conclusion
'Backrooms' is more than just a film; it's a reflection of our modern anxieties and a celebration of human creativity. It invites us to explore the liminal, to appreciate the residual spaces that often go unnoticed, and to consider the impact of our rapidly changing world on the human mind.
