A24 has come under scrutiny after multiple reports emerged of the studio issuing copyright strikes against indie creators making Backrooms-themed works. The claims target content based on the original online concept rather than the upcoming film.
Artists and developers shared accounts of removals from platforms including Redbubble and Google Play. One Reddit user described a strike on wallpaper designs drawn from the 2019 4chan image, while Davilkus Games said three strikes led to its developer account being banned.
The developer stated the game Exit the Backrooms: Level 94 was renamed to Liminal Complex: Level 94 after the action. At least three other small teams reportedly faced similar suspensions on July 3.
Kane Parsons, director of the A24 film, commented that he is looking into the matter and that it should not be happening. The Backrooms concept originated in a 4chan thread in 2019 with an image taken by an independent photographer in 2002.
Kotaku contacted A24 for comment but received no response before publication.
