Vancouver is no stranger to the silver screen, but a new, immersive promotional campaign for A24’s highly anticipated horror film, ‘Backrooms’, is blurring the lines between the movie set and the city itself. Ahead of what is expected to be a massive box office release, a local landmark theatre has been given an eerie makeover, offering fans and travelers a unique, spine-chilling experience.
Hollywood North Gets a Horror Makeover
Known affectionately as “Hollywood North,” Vancouver has long served as a versatile backdrop for countless films and television series, thanks to its diverse landscapes and attractive tax incentives. The city’s film industry is a significant economic driver, with Creative BC reporting that film and television production contributed billions to the provincial economy in recent years.
The latest major production to utilize the city’s unique locations is ‘Backrooms’, the new horror film from the acclaimed studio A24, known for hits like ‘Hereditary’ and ‘Everything Everywhere All at Once’. While the film was partially shot in the city, its promotional activities are now putting specific Vancouver locations in the global spotlight.
The Park Theatre’s Eerie New Look
In a brilliant marketing move, The Park Theatre, a beloved local cinema on Cambie Street, has undergone a complete transformation to mirror the unsettling aesthetic of the ‘Backrooms’ universe. The theatre’s facade now reflects the film’s signature liminal spaces—endless, empty, and unnervingly clean yellow hallways—creating an unmissable and slightly disturbing landmark. This temporary installation not only promotes the film but also transforms a public space into an interactive piece of art, drawing in both curious locals and tourists.
A Vintage Motel Takes a Starring Role
Fans eagerly analyzing the film’s promotional trailers have quickly identified another key Vancouver location: the 2400 Motel. Located in the city’s east end, this vintage motel, with its classic mid-century architecture, is heavily featured, making it an instantly recognizable landmark for anyone who has seen the previews. Its retro neon sign and distinctive layout provide the perfect atmosphere for the unsettling world of ‘Backrooms’.
The Future of Film Tourism in Vancouver
The strategic use of recognizable city locations for both filming and promotion is poised to have a significant impact on Vancouver’s tourism landscape. This phenomenon, known as film tourism, is a powerful motivator for travel, as fans flock to see the real-life locations where their favorite stories were brought to life.
The “Backrooms” Effect
Should ‘Backrooms’ achieve the critical and commercial success widely predicted for an A24 horror release, Vancouver can expect a new wave of visitors. We will likely see:
- Self-Guided Tours: Fans and travel bloggers will create and share walking or driving tours that include The Park Theatre (even after its promotion ends) and the 2400 Motel. The motel, in particular, may see a surge in booking requests from those brave enough to stay overnight.
- Increased Social Media Presence: These locations are set to become hotspots for social media. Instagrammers and TikTok creators will flock to capture their own eerie photos and videos, providing invaluable organic marketing for both the film and the city.
- Economic Boost for Local Businesses: The increased foot traffic around these landmarks will benefit nearby cafes, shops, and restaurants, providing a tangible economic boost to the local community.
For travelers seeking a unique cultural experience, Vancouver now offers more than just stunning natural beauty and a vibrant food scene. It offers a chance to step directly into a cinematic universe. As ‘Backrooms’ prepares to haunt audiences worldwide, the city of Vancouver is already capitalizing on its starring role, cementing its status as a must-visit destination for film lovers.
