Review of Obsession (2025)
Directed by Curry Barker, *Obsession* dives into a dark blend of horror and drama but ends up feeling one-dimensional. It stars Michael Johnston as Bear, a guy who uses a “one wish willow” to make Nikki (Inde Navarrette) fall in love with him. But what seems like a clever idea falters quickly.
The film presents a series of intriguing characters, yet they struggle under the weight of a weak plot. Bear’s magical wish doesn’t transform his life as he hoped; instead, it spirals into a nightmare, raising the question: what good is a forced love?
Inde Navarrette’s portrayal of Nikki shows promise but often feels exaggerated. Critics have noted her acting swings between over-the-top and lackluster, which reduces the impact of her character. Instead of feeling genuine, the love story feels coerced, robbing it of any real emotion.
Johnston’s Bear is similarly frustrating. As he grapples with the consequences of his wish, it’s hard to root for him. His journey is riddled with unlikable traits, leaving viewers wishing he would disappear. This portrayal reflects a key theme: the dangers of obsession and the blurry line between desire and control.
The film graphically portrays violence, notably a scene where a young girl’s face is smashed against a dashboard, pushing the boundaries of acceptable horror. While shock can be effective, *Obsession* leans too heavily on gore, overshadowing its narrative potential.
Supporting actors like Cooper Tomlinson and Megan Lawless offer solid performances, creating likable characters that are fleetingly enjoyable before being discarded to keep the story moving. Andy Richter’s cameo adds little substance, making his appearance more of a distraction than an enhancement.
Comparisons to other films like *Wishmaster* highlight how stories about wishes gone wrong have been told before—often with more depth. The gripping premise of *Obsession* fails to reach its potential as it prioritizes shock over substance.
Recent discussions on social media reflect a divided opinion on *Obsession*. Some viewers appreciate its raw creativity, while others criticize its lack of finesse. This film is an example of what happens when ambition doesn’t match execution.
Ultimately, *Obsession* misses the mark. Its ending feels like a cop-out, providing little resolution to the buildup. The film’s attempt to explore themes of obsession and control remains superficial, drowning in a sea of violence and hollow sentimentality. Instead of offering a unique viewing experience, it becomes a repetitive tale that fails to resonate, falling flat from start to finish.
Rating: 4/10
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