Obsession isn’t just the best horror movie of 2026 – it’s one of the year’s best movies

by

Most movie journalists become critics because they’re passionate about film. However, constantly watching and analyzing movies for work can sometimes diminish that initial excitement. This is especially true when people assume reviews are biased, claiming critics have been paid to like or dislike a particular film.

If that were true, wouldn’t we have stopped by now? And if someone is benefiting, where’s our share of the profits?

It’s not that this job is difficult, but it’s a real opportunity. The challenge is that it’s tough for any film to overcome people’s skepticism and really make an impact. Simply put, Obsession is a truly exceptional movie, and you should definitely see it this weekend.

Curry Barker, who previously made the film Milk & Serial (available to watch for free on YouTube), delivers a new take on the classic idea that you should be careful what you wish for. This time, the story centers on Bear, a record store employee played by Michael Johnston, who decides to finally tell his longtime friend and coworker, Nikki (Inde Navarrette), how he feels – especially since he’s about to quit his job.

When Bear struggles to simply ask Nikki out, even after she directly asks if he has feelings for her, he tries a magical item he bought at a new age shop – the “One Wish Willow.” All he has to do is break the willow and make a wish. Bear wishes for Nikki to love him above all else, and almost immediately, Nikki becomes completely obsessed with him.

We’re not just talking about constant texts – we mean going to extreme lengths, like watching someone sleep and even blocking their door so they can’t go to work. And that’s only the beginning…

What to Read Next

We won’t give away any spoilers, but Obsession is genuinely unsettling because it keeps you guessing. You might think you know where the story is going, but the author loves to throw in unexpected twists – some are gross and shocking, while others are surprisingly dark and humorous.

Michael Johnston delivers a compelling performance as Bear, a character who will constantly challenge your perceptions. You’ll find yourself questioning whether he’s simply insecure and clumsy, truly awful, or just unlucky. Throughout the film, Obsession, you’ll likely wrestle with all of these possibilities, but director Barker ultimately guides you toward a clear understanding of who Bear really is.

While Johnston is excellent, Inde Navarrette truly shines in Obsession, giving a performance that stands out as one of the year’s most memorable.

It’s no surprise that one of the year’s best films also features a standout performance. Navarrette is incredible, seamlessly shifting between intimidating and vulnerable, scary and lovable. The most powerful moments in Obsession – and there are plenty – revolve around her character, Nikki, with Navarrette brilliantly meeting all the physical and emotional demands of the role.

You’ll likely be captivated by Navarrette’s acting, much like Nikki is with Bear, though hopefully without going to the same lengths. It’s the kind of performance that deserves award recognition, and it firmly establishes Navarrette as a rising star – you’ll definitely be looking forward to her future work.

Beyond the strong performances – with Cooper Tomlinson providing the humor and Megan Lawless bringing emotional depth – Obsession is technically well-crafted. Director Barker, who also edited the film, expertly uses timing, creating moments of tension that are unsettling without feeling drawn out. He keeps the audience guessing, consistently subverting expectations.

Taylor Clemons’ cinematography is excellent, using empty space, shadows, and clever framing to build tension and fear. The film does include a few typical jump scares with loud noises, but director Barker mostly allows the unsettling atmosphere to develop naturally, through details like Nikki appearing unexpectedly in the background or the strange emptiness of a car window – and the events that happen inside that car will stay with you.

Beyond all its other strengths, Obsession finishes with a particularly stunning moment – almost as if to demonstrate everything the filmmakers and actors can do. It’s a truly remarkable film that will likely captivate you as much as it did us.

Obsession is out now in cinemas.

Check out our Streaming Guide to quickly find where you can watch all your favorite shows and movies!

The latest issue of Living Legends, a special collector’s edition about the royal family, is now available! You can purchase The Royals at newsstands or online.

Read More

2026-05-15 09:20