Curry Barker’s ‘Obsession’ Debuts with Shocking Rotten Tomatoes Score

Obsession is quickly becoming one of the most talked-about horror movies of the year after landing an impressive score on Rotten Tomatoes. The film, created by Curry Barker, is now being called one of the highest-rated horror releases of 2026 by early critics.

The movie first premiered at the 2025 Toronto International Film Festival during the Midnight Madness lineup and immediately started building strong word-of-mouth among horror fans.

According to Rotten Tomatoes reviews and critic reactions, many reviewers are praising the film for blending psychological horror, dark comedy, and emotional storytelling in a way that feels fresh and unsettling.

Obsession follows Bear, played by Michael Johnston, a music store employee who discovers a supernatural toy that grants wishes. After using it to make his childhood friend Nikki fall in love with him, things begin spiraling into disturbing and dangerous territory. Actress Inde Navarrette plays Nikki, and critics are already pointing to her performance as one of the film’s biggest strengths.

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

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

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

Other reviewers highlighted how the film mixes horror with dark humor. Luca Mehta from Discussing Film wrote that the movie proves “pure terror and dark comedy can work in unison to create something truly unforgettable.” He also noted that Barker’s background in low-budget sketch comedy helped shape the film’s unique tone.

Inde Navarrette’s performance has become one of the most praised parts of the movie. Robert Kojder from Flickering Myth described her as “a revelation,” while Frank Scheck from The Hollywood Reporter said her performance gives the film its “mojo.”

The source of this information comes from Rotten Tomatoes critic reviews and reactions published following early screenings of the film. With 76 reviews already counted, the movie has quickly positioned itself as a breakout horror title ahead of its theatrical release.

Obsession is scheduled to release in U.S. theaters on May 15, through Focus Features. Based on the early response, it may become one of the year’s biggest horror success stories.

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