‘Obsession’ Review: Strong horror film showcases Inde Navarrette’s talent

“Obsession” Trailer

Check out the trailer for the latest horror film, “Obsession,” from Focus Features, featuring Michael Johnston and Inde Navarrette, directed by Currie Barker.

Ever been head-over-heels for someone who just didn’t feel the same? It’s kind of a tough spot, right? Well, the film “Obsession” might just highlight the dangers in such a situation.

This fresh offering from Blumhouse follows Bear (played by Michael Johnston), who is completely taken with his childhood friend Nicky (Inde Navarrette). They work together at a music store alongside their friends Ian and Sarah. Bear, despite his feelings, struggles to voice them, trapped in shyness.

One day, while looking for a replacement for Nicky’s lost crystal necklace, Bear stumbles upon a peculiar item called “One Wish Willow.” For just $6.99, this whimsical toy claims to grant one wish by folding it in half.

I once considered a similar wish-making gimmick for a significant other but, well, I may have gotten a bit carried away with it myself.

“I wish Nikki Freeman loved me more than anyone else in the world,” Bear confesses, breaking the willow, seeking something more than he bargained for.

At first, Nicky’s affection seems to blossom as she invites Bear into her bed and even cooks breakfast. However, his joy quickly diminishes when he observes her increasingly bizarre behavior—like staring at him while he sleeps and her sudden emotional outbursts. And poor cat Sandy seems to be feeling the effects too…

Without major star power (aside from Andy Richter as the music store manager), “Obsession” leans heavily on the raw talent of its cast. Johnston portrays Bear’s emotional turmoil quite well, but it’s Navarrette’s performance that truly stands out. She transforms from joyous to agonizing in the blink of an eye, making her performance eerily captivating, reminiscent of Kathy Bates in “Misery.” It’s clear she’s an actress to keep an eye on.

In her feature film debut, director Currie Barker cleverly crafts an unsettling atmosphere that captures a nostalgic 80s and 90s vibe. The film’s visuals shine, particularly through the shadowy effects that obscure Nicki’s seemingly cursed face, making her piercing eyes the center of attention—definitely adding to the eerie factor. Barker strikingly balances moments of horror with twisted humor.