Curry Barker's 'Obsession' is a chilling horror film that showcases the talents of a rising director and a scream queen in the making, Inde Navarrette. The movie explores themes of consent, communication, and the consequences of unchecked desires, all while delivering a thrilling and suspenseful experience. Barker's sophomore feature is a standout in the horror genre, setting an unsettling atmosphere that will keep audiences on the edge of their seats.
The story centers around Bear (Michael Johnston), who, in a moment of desperation, makes a wish on a One Wish Willow toy, hoping for his friend Nikki (Navarrette) to love him more. The wish is granted, but the consequences are far from ordinary. The film effectively builds tension as the audience wonders how far Nikki's romantic fixation will go, with Navarrette delivering a chilling performance that showcases her range and talent.
One of the most intriguing aspects of 'Obsession' is the promotional campaign surrounding Nikki. Focus Features and Universal have created a text line for fans to interact with the character, who has a penchant for sending eerie messages at odd hours. Street advertisements have also been defaced with graffiti in Nikki's handwriting, expressing her undying love for Bear. This interactive approach adds an extra layer of immersion to the film, blurring the lines between reality and fiction.
Barker's direction is commendable, creating a sense of unease that lingers long after the credits roll. The film's setting, a familiar and disenchanted portrayal of youth, adds to the overall unsettling atmosphere. However, there are a few minor criticisms to be made. The two kill scenes are unevenly distributed, with one character's death being more graphic and intense, almost bordering on an NC-17 rating, while the other feels like a rushed and somewhat comical afterthought.
Additionally, the brief appearance of Andy Richter as the characters' boss is underutilized. Richter, a comedic legend, only has a single line, leaving viewers wanting more from his character. Despite these minor quibbles, 'Obsession' is a solid entry in the horror genre, establishing Barker as a director to watch and Navarrette as a scream queen in the making.
In conclusion, 'Obsession' is a must-watch for horror enthusiasts, offering a unique blend of suspense, atmosphere, and thematic depth. Barker's direction and Navarrette's performance are standout elements that contribute to the film's overall success. As Barker continues to establish his style, audiences can look forward to more chilling experiences from this talented filmmaker.
