New Horror Film “Obsession” Breaks Box Office Records

On May 15th, director Curry Barker’s psychological horror film, “Obsession”, became a surprising hit in theaters. The story centers around a young man whose deep longing for his longtime crush materializes, but not in the way he expected—it’s far darker and more unsettling.

In its opening, “Obsession” shattered box office expectations, grossing over $285 million globally, all from a modest budget of just $750,000. A considerable portion of its audience consists of Gen Z viewers, making up approximately 75% of ticket sales from those aged 18 to 34.

Critics have dubbed it the “fatal charm of Generation Z,” suggesting the film resonates with audiences due to its commentary on toxic “nice guy” dynamics. The term “nice guy” refers to men who believe they deserve romantic affection simply because they are courteous and friendly. When faced with rejection, these men often feel resentment, perceiving kindness as a strategy rather than a genuine gesture.

The protagonist, Bear, is deeply infatuated with his friend Nikki. Critics point out that Bear embodies traits of the classic “nice guy” who turns manipulative, intensifying the dynamics, which resonates sharply with a generation critical of such behaviors.

However, Blaze TV presenter John Doyle believes this interpretation oversimplifies what draws younger audiences to “Obsession.” In a recent episode of “The John Doyle Show,” he explored the broader cultural implications of the film.

In the movie, Bear seeks advice from his friend Ian about expressing his feelings for Nikki. Ian comments that Bear’s approach is too sincere, making the situation feel awkward and strange. Doyle suggests that this sense of discomfort reflects why many young people struggle with loneliness and relationships today.

Doyle adds, “We literally do nothing. We just sit in the corner with cool cards until we die.” Alternatively, some resort to dubious tactics like “negging”—giving backhanded compliments to gain favor from potential love interests.

Bear’s failure to answer Nikki’s direct question about whether he likes her—responding instead with “As a friend”—highlights his inability to be genuine, which Doyle argues undermines the film’s supposed message of “good guys trying to control women.” He asserts that “Obsession” is fundamentally about the pitfalls of dishonesty and the importance of truth.

For more insights, check out the episode above.