Curry Barker Shares Insights on the Heartfelt Story Behind His Horror Film “Obsession”
Curry Barker is making his directorial debut with the horror film Obsession, exploring complex themes of consent and communication.
In recent discussions, Barker addressed the duality of the character Nikki, played by Inde Naverrette, who embodies both a villain and a victim after her best friend Bear, portrayed by Michael Johnston, wishes that she loves him above all else.
“Well, we wanted it to feel grounded, and we wanted to really lean into, ‘OK, magic is real in this world, fine. Let’s accept that, let’s move on,’” Barker explained to DiscussingFilm. “And now, what you’re left with is a pretty tragic story about a man and a woman, and leaning into the realism of that was really important to me.”
Naverrette’s portrayal of Nikki incorporates moments of possession by a sinister spirit, alongside chilling outbursts that reveal the real Nikki’s horror as her friend exploits the situation.
Now in theaters, Obsession also features Cooper Tomlinson, Megan Lawless, and Andy Richter.
Curry Barker emphasized the significance of depicting Nikki as a victim in Obsession, stating that capturing her fear was as crucial as illustrating her terrifying nature. “What you’re left with is a really tragic story about a man & a woman & leaning into the realism of that was really important.” pic.twitter.com/dQnX94Dqew
— DiscussingFilm (@DiscussingFilm) May 15, 2026
Following his 2024 directorial debut Milk & Serial, Barker’s work on Obsession positions him for a promising future, with upcoming projects that include Blumhouse’s Anything but Ghosts and A24’s Texas Chainsaw Massacre.
