By Veronika Milovidova, Year 11
Last week, I went to the cinema to watch Obsession, the new horror film directed by Curry Barker, and it was one of the most memorable films I have seen this year. At first glance, the movie appears to be a simple romance, but it quickly transforms into a disturbing psychological horror story that keeps the audience tense throughout. Combining suspense, emotional depth, and an original storyline, Obsession is a film that I would strongly recommend to anyone who enjoys horror movies with a deeper message.
The story follows Bear, a shy young man who has secretly been in love with his childhood friend and co-worker Nikki for years. Unable to express his feelings, he discovers a mysterious object called the “One Wish Willow” and uses it to make a wish: for Nikki to love him more than anyone else in the world. His wish comes true, but not in the way he imagined. Nikki’s affection quickly becomes unhealthy and terrifying, turning into a dangerous obsession that threatens both of their lives. What follows is a chilling exploration of the consequences of trying to control another person’s feelings.
One of the strongest aspects of the film is its originality. While many horror movies rely heavily on jump scares, Obsession creates fear through psychological tension and uncomfortable situations. The audience is constantly left wondering what will happen next, and the suspense builds steadily throughout the film.
The performances are also excellent. Michael Johnston does a great job portraying Bear as a lonely and sympathetic character, while Inde Navarrette delivers a particularly impressive performance as Nikki. As her character changes throughout the story, she manages to be both frightening and tragic at the same time. Their performances make the story feel believable, even when the supernatural elements become more extreme.
Another reason I enjoyed the film is that it offers more than simple entertainment. Beneath the horror, the movie explores themes such as loneliness, consent, unhealthy relationships, and the dangers of trying to force love rather than allowing genuine relationships to develop naturally. These themes give the film emotional depth and make it more thought-provoking than many other horror movies. Critics have also highlighted the film’s exploration of dating, loneliness, and human connection.
Overall, Obsession is a creative, suspenseful, and surprisingly emotional horror film. It combines strong acting, an original concept, and meaningful themes to create an unforgettable cinema experience. I would highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys psychological horror or thrillers that leave a lasting impression long after the credits roll.
