Men will literally wish on a cursed artefact rather than go to therapy in Curry Barker’s Obsession.
The advance word on Obsession, the new film from internet comedian turned director Curry Barker, is that it’s a bona fide modern horror classic – an all killer, no filler, scarefest. Un bangaire, as the French probably don’t say. But, for real, the reviews from the film’s festival run have been nothing short of effusive – it’s sitting on a sweet 97% on Rotten Tomatoes at the time of writing. Let’s see what all the fuss is about, shall we?
Obsession Trailer
What’s the plot?
Our protagonist – hero is not the appropriate word here – is Bear, a lonely schlub harbouring a long-standing and deeply awkward crush on his lifelong BFF, Nikki. Rather than, you know, going to therapy (although he does seem to talk to his friends, so points there), he makes a wish on a weird novelty toy, the “One Wish Willow”, for Nikki’s undying love.
And that’s exactly what he gets, much to his horror, as Nikki goes full bunny boiler under the influence of the magical gizmo. It’s not her fault, to be clear – it’s his. And boy, is he gonna pay for it.
Who’s in it?
- Michael Johnston as Bear, a music store employee who really needs to bone up on his early 20th century horror literature.
- Inde Navarrette as Nikki, Bear’s co-worker and childhood friend.
- Cooper Tomlinson as Ian.
- Megan Lawless as Sarah.
- …and comedy champeen Andy Richter in some capacity.
When’s it out?
Obsession is hitting Australian cinemas on May 14.
What’s the vibe?
There’s a horror-movie-as-metaphor thing going on with Obsession, but it’s a smart one. The central Monkey’s Paw conceit is pretty well worn, but using it to unpick toxic friendships, male entitlement, and the so-called “male loneliness epidemic” is pretty slick. It Follows might be the most obvious point of comparison, and everyone loved It Follows, right?
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