Exploring the Liminal Horror Genre: From "Exit 8" to "Backrooms" and Beyond
The emergence of the psychological horror film "Exit 8" in 2025 and the upcoming release of A24's "Backrooms" have sparked interest in the liminal horror sub-genre and its online origins. Directed by Kane Parsons, the "Backrooms" movie is based on the internet phenomenon that originated from an image posted on message boards in the 2010s. This image depicted an empty office illuminated by yellow fluorescent light, embodying the liminal space aesthetic and the emerging liminal horror genre.
In February 2026, a trailer for "Backrooms" promised to faithfully translate the viral internet sensation into a cinematic experience. The influence of online horror aesthetics on movies is evident in films like "Skinamarink" from 2023, which utilized a distinct visual style to evoke feelings of unease and dread. Liminal horror thrives on creating a sense of unease by blending familiarity with the unknown, tapping into deeper themes of lost hope that are likely to shape future horror filmmaking.
The concept of liminality, derived from the Latin word "Limen" meaning "threshold," refers to transitional states between two entities, whether psychological or physical. Liminal spaces like train stations, airport gates, and hotel hallways serve as transitional zones, evoking an ethereal quality that has inspired an aesthetic exploration of liminality in physical spaces. This aesthetic emerged alongside other nostalgic styles like Weirdcore and Dreamcore, reflecting a yearning for a bygone era.
Liminal horror, a sub-genre that embraces liminality, subverts familiar environments to evoke somber wistfulness and nostalgia tinged with darkness. It often incorporates traditional horror elements, such as monsters lurking in endless hallways, to create a sense of unease within familiar settings. The genre intersects with analog horror, utilizing retro filming techniques to enhance its nostalgic and eerie atmosphere, effectively immersing viewers in a blend of nostalgia and terror.
As online aesthetics transition into the mainstream, liminal horror is poised to gain popularity for its ability to evoke a unique blend of nostalgia and unease. Films like "Exit 8," based on a Japanese video game of the same name, capture the essence of liminal horror by immersing players in a deserted underground metro station filled with environmental anomalies. The game's adaptation into a movie further exemplifies the allure of liminal horror and its ability to captivate audiences with its nebulous yet specific vibe.
In conclusion, the rise of liminal horror as a sub-genre reflects a cultural fascination with liminality and nostalgia, blending familiar environments with unsettling elements to create a sense of unease and foreboding. As online aesthetics continue to influence mainstream media, liminal horror is poised to carve out a distinct niche in the horror genre, captivating audiences with its evocative blend of nostalgia, unease, and terror.