Let's dive into the chilling world of Obsession, a horror masterpiece that has left audiences on the edge of their seats. This film, a debut feature by Curry Barker, is a unique blend of classic horror tropes, and it's fascinating to explore the creative process behind its creation.
A Family Affair
What makes Obsession particularly intriguing is the involvement of Curry Barker's father, Jeff Barker, a playwright, in crafting one of the film's most spine-chilling moments. Curry, who wears multiple hats as writer, director, and editor, turned to his dad for a short passage that would later become a pivotal scene. Jeff, already considering a transition to screenwriting, delivered a bloodcurdling piece that showcases his talent for the macabre.
"My dad has a mind that's perfectly suited for these creepy narratives," Curry shares. "It's a talent that runs in the family."
The Power of Possession
Obsession draws from the classic "be careful what you wish for" trope, reminiscent of The Monkey's Paw, but with a demonic twist inspired by The Exorcist. The result is a film that ties your stomach in knots, much like the acclaimed Hereditary.
At the heart of the story is Bear, an insecure young man who wishes for the love of his coworker, Nikki. This wish, granted by a "One Wish Willow" toy, sets off a chain of events that transforms Nikki's love into a violent obsession, suggesting a possession of sorts.
Crafting Terror
One of the film's most memorable scenes is when Nikki, played by the incredible Inde Navarrette, stands at a party and recites a disturbing story she's written about Hansel and Gretel. Curry explains that he had the basic idea but wanted Nikki's voice to be distinct, so he tasked his dad with writing it. The result is a creepy tale that reflects the film's central theme.
"It's not right and it's not supposed to happen, but it is," Curry says of the brother-sister dynamic in the story. "That's kind of the movie."
Visual Mastery
Another visually striking scene is when Nikki covers Bear's apartment door with duct tape, trapping him inside. Curry reveals that he fought to keep the focus on Bear's face before cutting to the door, creating a sense of suspense and surprise. The art department's ingenuity, using a large sheet of duct tape with only the edges attached, made this scene possible.
Comic Relief
A hilarious moment in the film is when Bear calls the One Wish Willow customer service line to cancel his wish. Curry, in a multi-hyphenate role, recorded this dialogue himself, adding a touch of humor to an otherwise intense film.
Unraveling the Plot
The film's ending reveals that Ian and Nikki had been hooking up before the main events of the story. Curry explains that there were multiple versions of this scene, with one version suggesting that Nikki had feelings for Bear all along. This adds a layer of complexity to Ian's character, who, despite being an "asshole friend," genuinely encourages Bear to pursue Nikki.
Future Possibilities
Curry has expressed interest in expanding the Obsession universe, potentially through a sequel or an anthology series. He envisions exploring the theme of selfish wishes and their horrific consequences further, with the One Wish Willow as a recurring element.
In my opinion, Obsession is a testament to the power of creative collaboration and the unique perspectives that family members can bring to a project. It's a film that keeps you guessing and leaves a lasting impression. Personally, I can't wait to see what Curry Barker and his talented team come up with next!
