Curry Barker’s ‘Obsession’ Achieves Impressive Rotten Tomatoes Score

‘Obsession’ is rapidly becoming one of the most discussed horror films of the year, thanks to its remarkable score on Rotten Tomatoes. Created by Curry Barker, the film is being hailed by early critics as one of the highest-rated horror releases of 2026.

The movie premiered at the 2025 Toronto International Film Festival as part of the Midnight Madness lineup, quickly generating strong word-of-mouth among horror enthusiasts.

According to reviews and reactions on Rotten Tomatoes, many critics are praising the film for its unique blend of psychological horror, dark comedy, and emotional storytelling, which feels both fresh and unsettling.

‘Obsession’ follows Bear, portrayed by Michael Johnston, a music store employee who stumbles upon a supernatural toy that grants wishes. After using it to make his childhood friend Nikki fall in love with him, events take a dark and dangerous turn. Inde Navarrette plays Nikki, and critics are already highlighting her performance as one of the film’s standout elements.

Several prominent reviewers have shared highly positive feedback. Jeff Nelson from WeHo Times awarded the movie a 4 out of 5 score, calling it “a genre mindscrew that warrants roaring crowd reactions.” He concluded, “To put it simply, this movie is worth being your next obsession.”

John Daniel Tangalin from Hue Watched It offered even more intense praise, stating, “Obsession is brutal, bleak, barely beautiful, and I do not by any means intend to put that sentiment lightly.” He described the film as “soul-shattering and spirit-crushing.”

Critics are also commending Barker’s directing style. Debbie Lynn Elias from Behind The Lens noted that the filmmaker exhibits “a clear understanding of tone, restraint, and visual storytelling.” She remarked that the movie feels “intimate and unsettling without ever overreaching.”

Other reviewers have pointed out how the film effectively combines horror with dark humor. Luca Mehta from Discussing Film stated that the movie demonstrates “pure terror and dark comedy can work in unison to create something truly unforgettable.” He also mentioned that Barker’s background in low-budget sketch comedy contributed to the film’s distinctive tone.

Inde Navarrette’s performance has emerged as one of the most acclaimed aspects of the film. Robert Kojder from Flickering Myth described her as “a revelation,” while Frank Scheck from The Hollywood Reporter stated her performance gives the film its “mojo.”

This information is sourced from Rotten Tomatoes critic reviews and reactions following early screenings of the film. With 76 reviews already counted, ‘Obsession’ has quickly established itself as a breakout horror title ahead of its theatrical release.

‘Obsession’ is set to hit U.S. theaters on May 15, through Focus Features. Based on the early reception, it could become one of the year’s major horror success stories.

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