‘Obsession’ is the must-see horror movie (so far) of 2026

Editor’s note: This is a spoiler-free column.

There’s nothing quite like the unique hell of getting exactly what you want, but failing to properly consider the consequences.

This is a common basis for many horror films. It’s not new. However, every so often, a movie comes along that elevates a simple premise into something extraordinary. Obsession is (so far) the must-see horror movie of the year, turning a relatable dream into something truly terrifying. It’s already an unlikely success story.

In 2017, producer Jason Blum struck gold with Get Out, which turned filmmaker Jordan Peele into a bankable household name. Now, he’s lucked out again with 26-year-old Curry Barker. Made on a shoestring budget of less than $1 million, Obsession has earned $80 million worldwide since its official release date on May 15. In a year dominated by the usual parade of uninspired sequels, Obsession is a welcome original feature.

Almost everyone experiences unrequited love. We’ve all had secret crushes. That can be a special kind of purgatory, especially when you’re stuck in the friend zone. How do you navigate that without alienating the other person? Barker offers a solution with horrific ramifications.

The leads are Bear (Michael Johnston) and Nikki (Inde Navarrette). They’re not only friends but also coworkers at a music store. A major reason Obsession works is the superb chemistry between Johnston and Navarrette. The audience readily accepts their platonic relationship. You can see why Bear wants to be more than friends. You can also see why Nikki would prefer to keep the status quo.

In desperation, Bear, much like Josh Baskin in Big, makes a wish with the help of a vintage novelty prop. The wish for a relationship with Nikki is granted, but unlike the Tom Hanks movie, he is going to have considerably less fun. The spell is cast. Everything is perfect, right? Well, no. Nikki becomes obsessed with Bear.

There is nothing complicated here. At times, we can see ourselves in Bear’s predicament. How do you deal with an extremely needy significant other? Those situations are especially challenging when you love someone. And if you’re a true-crime junkie, you have watched those situations turn deadly.

However, Barker’s Obsession isn’t a Dateline episode. This is pure horror that strikes a nerve. Some scenes are so unsettling that they’re hard to watch. One particular moment will make you jump out of your chair and give your paramour the side eye.

Ultimately, what sets Obsession apart from typical horror fare is that it nails the ending. It’s unassailable. The finale is tragic, and the audience doesn’t feel cheated. For a movie about a fantastical situation, this is the most realistic conclusion.

Obsession is a horror classic that haunts long after the credits roll.