What begins as a seemingly innocent fantasy of unrequited love gradually mutates into something far darker in Obsession, a supernatural psychological thriller that explores the thin line between desire and control. Written, directed and edited by Curry Barker, the film blends supernatural horror with psychological unease to deliver a haunting meditation on loneliness, consent and the dangers of manipulating human emotions.
Bear (Michael Johnston), a shy young man harbouring feelings for his childhood friend and co-worker Nikki (Inde Navarrette), stumbles upon a mystical artefact known as the “One Wish Willow”. Seizing what appears to be a miraculous opportunity, he wishes for Nikki to fall in love with him. The wish is granted, but the dream quickly curdles into a nightmare as Nikki’s affection evolves into an all-consuming and terrifying obsession.
Johnston gives a nuanced performance, convincingly portraying Bear’s vulnerability while navigating the moral ambiguities of a character who attempts to manufacture love. Yet it is Inde Navarrette who commands the screen. Her fearless and emotionally charged performance transforms Nikki from an endearing young woman into a deeply unsettling presence, shifting effortlessly between tenderness and menace.
What elevates Obsession above conventional genre fare is its willingness to engage with complex themes. Beneath its supernatural premise lies a thought-provoking examination of consent, emotional dependency and the consequences of exerting power over another person’s feelings. Barker resists easy answers, allowing the horror to emerge not merely from the supernatural, but from recognisably human flaws.
Disturbing, intelligent and emotionally resonant, Obsession stands out as one of the more memorable entries in contemporary horror cinema.
LOOK AHEAD
July 2026 promises a diverse slate of major Hollywood releases. With the rich blend of fantasy, action, horror, mystery and blockbuster spectacle, the month looks set to be rewarding for cinema-goers.
Leading the charge is The Odyssey, Christopher Nolan’s ambitious retelling of the ancient Greek epic, expected to combine mythological grandeur with the director’s trademark visual spectacle and narrative complexity.
Horror fans can look forward to Evil Dead Burn, the latest instalment in the long-running franchise, which aims to deliver the visceral shocks and supernatural terror that have become its hallmark.
Disney revisits one of its most beloved modern classics with the live-action adaptation of Moana, introducing the story to a new generation while banking on nostalgia among existing fans.
Meanwhile, Spider-Man: Brand New Day is shaping up to be one of the year’s biggest superhero events, while Enola Holmes 3 continues the popular mystery-adventure series with another outing for the sharp-witted young detective.
(Praveen Nagda is Festival Director, KidzCINEMA and Culture Cinema Film Festivals)
