The optical performances of 15-inch edge-lit backlight were simulated by using a Monte Carlo ray-tracing technique. The backlight model was built by combining a wedge-type light guide plate, a diffuser sheet, a tubular fluorescent lamp with a lamp reflector, and two crossed prism sheets. Angular distributions of the luminance on each optical component obtained from simulation were consistent with those obtained from experiments on a real 15-inch backlight. The constructed backlight model was used to evaluate the optical performances of a micro-pyramid film. It was found that the on-axis luminance gain on the pyramid film is higher than that on one prism film but much lower than that on the two crossed prism films. These results suggest that a reliable simulation model can be used to develop new hybrid films and to optimize the optical structure of edge-lit backlight in order to reduce the developmental period.