Obsession
The brief
Curry Barker's supernatural horror slowly tightens its grip as Michael Johnston's lovesick protagonist gets everything he thinks he wants in increasingly disturbing ways. The film builds dread through everyday romance turned nightmarish, with Johnston delivering a genuinely unnerving performance as desire curdles into something much darker. Barker knows exactly when to pull back and when to lean into the sinister implications, creating a creeping sense that love itself has become predatory. Perfect for fans of folk horror like The Ritual or anyone who enjoyed how Midsommar weaponized romantic anxiety.
The verdict
If you crave slow-burn psychological horror that turns romantic obsession into genuine nightmare fuel, this is a masterclass in creeping dread with stellar performances and direction. If you prefer fast-paced scares or can't handle deeply unsettling portrayals of toxic love, stick to more conventional horror offerings.
Watch with
- 👫 Horror fans who appreciate psychological builds
- 👫 Date night (if you both love being unsettled)
- ⚠️ Skip if you prefer action over atmosphere
Heads up
- Supernatural stalking and obsessive behavior (moderate)
- Psychological manipulation and gaslighting (moderate)
- Some disturbing romantic situations (moderate)
Credits
- Director
- Curry Barker
- Cast
- Michael Johnston, Inde Navarrette, Cooper Tomlinson, Megan Lawless, Andy Richter, Chloe Breen, Darin Toonder
Official synopsis
After breaking the mysterious "One Wish Willow" to win his crush's heart, a hopeless romantic finds himself
The Double
Make a night of it
Pair this with Perfect Blue (1998)
Both explore obsessive desire that spirals into psychological horror territory.
Total runtime: 1h 48m + 1h 22m = 3h 10m
