Hollywood producer Jason Blum has expressed significant enthusiasm for Curry Barker's debut feature film, "Obsession," which is set for a theatrical release this week on May 15. Blum, known for his work with Blumhouse Productions, praised Barker and his filmmaking team, stating in a recent tweet, > "Very excited for you all to experience OBSESSION this week. Curry and his filmmaking crew are fresh and twisted in the greatest way!" The supernatural horror film has garnered widespread critical praise, currently holding a 96% "Certified Fresh" rating on Rotten Tomatoes.
"Obsession" centers on Bear (Michael Johnston), a music store employee who uses a mysterious "One Wish Willow" to make his childhood friend Nikki (Inde Navarrette) fall in love with him. The wish quickly takes a sinister turn as Nikki's affection becomes increasingly obsessive and erratic. The film explores classic "monkey's paw" tropes with a modern, unsettling twist, blending elements of dread, jump scares, and dark comedy.
Director Curry Barker, a former YouTube comedian, has rapidly ascended in the horror genre, first gaining recognition for his $800 micro-budget short film "Milk & Serial." His transition from viral online content to feature filmmaking has drawn comparisons to other successful comedians-turned-horror directors like Jordan Peele. "Obsession" marks his highly anticipated feature debut, showcasing his unique vision and ability to craft compelling narratives with limited resources.
Jason Blum joined "Obsession" as an executive producer under his Blumhouse Productions banner in December 2025, a significant endorsement for the young filmmaker. Critics have lauded Barker's execution, with IndieWire giving the film a B+ grade and The Guardian awarding it 4 out of 5 stars. The film's critical success suggests a strong reception as it prepares for its wide release.
Focus Features acquired the distribution rights for "Obsession" in a deal reportedly exceeding $15 million following its premiere at the 2025 Toronto International Film Festival. This acquisition was one of the most notable festival deals of the year, especially given the film's modest budget of $750,000 to $1 million. The film is projected to gross around $10 million in its opening weekend in the United States and Canada.
Barker's success with "Obsession" has paved the way for several high-profile future projects, including "Anything But Ghosts," which he co-wrote and directed with Jason Blum and Roy Lee producing. Additionally, A24 has commissioned Barker to write and direct a new feature take on "The Texas Chainsaw Massacre." These upcoming ventures solidify Barker's position as a rising talent in the horror film industry.
