Having a crush on someone can be such a blissful feeling, but relationships can be a messy business. “Obsession” delves into the dangers of having such obsessions by using horror to amplify its message. This film follows a modern wave of horror films that amplify the horrors of different relationship dynamics present in our society today. One of the most recent and acclaimed films to be released was the 2025 film “Together”.
“Obsession” was directed by Curry Barker, who has previously directed several horror films. Having directed the horror films “Milk & Serial” and the upcoming “Texas Chainsaw Massacre” from A24, Barker continues to refine his craft. Actors Michael Johnston and Inde Navarrette do a great job bringing these haunting characters to the screen and making them believable.
The Story
“Obsession” follows Bear, who has a crush on his best friend Nikki. After unsuccessfully working up the courage to confess his feelings to her, he uses a ‘One Wish Willow’. Little does he know that the silly trinket is, in fact, very real. His wish for Nikki to become obsessed with him comes to fruition in the worst possible way. All seems amazing with Nikki being clingy, until it devolves into the possessed Nikki making threats until Bear decides to comply to stay with her.
The sudden, manipulative, and clingy behavior of Nikki worries those around them. To those on the outside, it looks like Nikki is going through something, and Bear is taking advantage of the situation. Relationships become tense as Bear spends more time with Nikki than with his best friend. There is also jealousy from his friend, who had a crush on him for years. The film uses these tense relationships to make situations feel claustrophobic at times.
Unsettlingly Reflective
“Obsession” uses unlikable characters to its benefit to better reflect reality. Within the film, Bear is obsessed with Nikki. Though he has other friends in his friend group, he views Nikki as the only light in his life. He is unable to let go of the possibility that she would not want to be with him. In glimpses of the real Nikki hidden behind her possession, we see that she is terrified by all she is being forced to go through. Worse still, when Bear considers the fact that he is forcing her to be with him without her consent, he dismisses the thought easily and selfishly.
Additionally, Nikki, amidst her possession is no better. At the beginning, she is seemingly just a clingy and loving girlfriend. However, this unfolds as she manipulates Bear into not leaving her side. Her manipulative tactics quickly evolve from lies to self-mutilation so that Bear complies.
Unfortunately, though these characters are fictional, they are reflective of our world. Having been witness to both of these types of characters in real life, it can be hard to escape. Sometimes those who act atrociously can be those whom we believe love us. Though it can be extremely hard, we have to let go of these people to live our happiest lives. Even when these toxic people are our family, partner and friends, it is better to let go rather than suffer.
The PSA Hidden in the Horror
“Obsession” delivers an unsettlingly reflective look at toxic relationships in modern society. While the film doesn’t offer an answer to the horrors it presents, it can serve as a sort of public service announcement. Films with such messages can sometimes help people in these situations realize that there is a way out and a better life ahead. In my opinion, some of the best horror movies delve into social commentary, and this film belongs among that roster.
