The horror film “Obsession” has achieved remarkable success in 2025, breaking the record for the highest-grossing film despite having a modest $750,000 US budget. Directed by 26-year-old Curry Barker, the American movie premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival in September and hit theaters on May 15. Since its release, “Obsession” has consistently dominated box office charts, raking in over $245 million US domestically and more than $158 million US internationally, totaling a staggering $403 million US in box office sales.
Following its festival debut, Focus Features acquired the film for around $14 million US, marking it as the most successful movie in the company’s 24-year history and ranking among the most profitable films ever made. The film’s theatrical triumph led to the postponement of its video-on-demand release, which later premiered on streaming platforms on June 30 and is scheduled for Blu-ray 4K and DVD release on July 14.
The plot of “Obsession” revolves around Bear (played by Michael Johnston), a young man grappling with unrequited love for his friend Nikki (portrayed by Inde Navarrette). The story takes a dark turn after Bear makes a wish using a “One Wish Willow,” leading to unforeseen consequences.
In a similar vein, the success of “Obsession” mirrors that of another horror film, “Backrooms” (2026), directed by 20-year-old Kane Parsons. These films have sparked discussions within the industry about the emergence of Gen Z filmmakers and their ability to attract younger audiences to cinemas.
Michael Stasko, a filmmaker and professor at the University of Windsor, attributes part of “Obsession’s” success to its compelling and efficient script, which avoids typical horror film tropes by integrating various elements seamlessly. Barker’s prior experience creating content on his YouTube channel with Cooper Tomlinson, who also stars in the film, helped build a substantial audience base without relying on traditional marketing strategies.
Experts like Ernest Mathijs from the University of British Columbia commend Barker and Parsons for their adeptness in utilizing digital media platforms to refine their filmmaking skills at a young age, potentially signaling a shift in the industry’s landscape. It is anticipated that “Obsession” will become a focal point in film studies courses due to its impact and innovative approach to storytelling.
Looking ahead, Barker has already completed shooting another horror film, “Anything But Ghosts,” set in the same universe as “Obsession,” with plans for a release next year. Additionally, he is slated to write and direct a remake of “The Texas Chain Saw Massacre” and is contemplating the development of an anthology series centered on wishes gone awry.
