‘Masterpiece’ thriller is the ‘best film of 2026’ so far | Films | Entertainment
A brand-new low-budget movie has made waves since its release, drawing far more attention than initially expected. Obsession is an American supernatural psychological horror film written, directed and edited by Curry Barker. It stars Michael Johnston and Inde Navarrette, with Cooper Tomlinson, Megan Lawless, and Andy Richter appearing in supporting roles.
Barker received attention through his work as a YouTube sketch comedian. He uploaded his short horror film The Chair to his channel in 2023, which received an offer from producer James Harris to adapt it into a feature-length film.
Barker then took this opportunity to pitch Obsession, which is a different film idea of his, partly inspired by an episode of The Simpsons. The film was shot in Los Angeles in late 2024 for a total of $750,000.
Now, Variety has named the film the “best movie of 2026 so far”.
The film’s synopsis reads: “After breaking the mysterious ‘One Wish Willow’ to win his crush’s heart, a hopeless romantic finds himself getting exactly what he asked for but soon discovers that some desires come at a dark, sinister price.”
Obsession has amassed a near-perfect score of 95% on Rotten Tomatoes. It is also a bit more impressive because it is a horror film, which notoriously don’t tend to be rated as highly.
The critics’ consensus states: “Taking an icky conceit and twisting it to deviously crowd-pleasing ends, Obsession is dauntingly disturbing while also skillfully amusing and thrilling.”
The audience consensus reads: “We’re obsessed with Inde Navarrette in Obsession, a creatively grotesque — and at times darkly funny — horror film that cements Curry Barker as a filmmaker to watch.”
On Instagram, film seal, run by Pubity, said: “Obsession is on course to become the most profitable film of all time. With a budget of just $770k, it’s hit $148 million in the first 2 weeks!
“Many resources think it could easily smash another $100m, which will be the most profitable box office film of all time.”
On the post, ryderonthedarkside commented that they were “proud of @curry.barker, this film is a masterpiece”.
Obsession is available to stream via purchase on Apple TV.
