About the film (courtesy of Focus Features):
After breaking the mysterious “One Wish Willow” to win his crush’s heart, a hopeless romantic finds himself getting exactly what he asked for but soon discovers that some desires come at a dark, sinister price.
There is an old adage that warns us to be careful what we wish for, and writer/director Curry Barker seems determined to hammer that lesson home with absolute prejudice. In the latest horror offering from Blumhouse, Obsession, the narrative serves as a blood-soaked cautionary tale that reminds audiences why supernatural shortcuts rarely lead to a “happily ever after.” From the moment the story begins, it is clear that sunshine and champagne are not on the menu for this twisted romance.
Obsession follows the unfortunate Bear (Michael Johnston) as he attempts to use unconventional means to win over his longtime crush, Nikki (Inde Navarrette). While the premise of a “one wish” scenario is a staple of the genre, the film leans into the inevitable downward spiral with a grim enthusiasm. There are no happy endings to be found here, only a mounting body count that makes one lose track of the casualties fairly quickly. It captures that same sense of relentless, repeating dread found in Happy Death Day (2017), though with a much darker edge.
While this movie may not reinvent the wheel of horror tropes, Barker demonstrates a keen understanding of tension and atmosphere. What starts as a relatively mellow pursuit of romance quickly shifts into an uneasy, high-anxiety trek through psychological and physical terror. Obsession succeeds because it provides the right tools for the job, transitioning from a “frolic in the lilies” to a descent into madness with effective pacing.
A massive part of the film’s success lies in the performances, particularly from Inde Navarrette. She delivers an almost too-convincing portrayal of a character who has completely lost their grip on reality early in the race. If her performance in Obsession doesn’t scare a viewer away from seeking things they haven’t earned, nothing will. The chemistry and subsequent friction between the leads create a sense of unease that rivals the intensity of Fear (1996).
The production does a solid job of keeping the material fresh by peppering scenes with unexpected moments that force the viewer to stay alert. Whether it is a dark laugh or a moment that makes you want to shield your eyes, Obsession manages to balance emotional weight with “oh hell no” reactions. It is a movie designed for a specific demographic—those who enjoy watching a story “bake” until it reaches a violent, bubbling climax.
For those who appreciate a well-crafted mess that comes together with a bloody flourish, Obsession offers a gripping experience. It is a reminder that the price of obsession is often far higher than anyone is willing to pay. Look for it to bring its unique brand of terror to the big screen starting Friday, May 15th.
