Nolan At The Movies: "Obsession"

By Nolan Cleary

In the 1992 animated film Aladdin, there is a now-famous scene where the genie, voiced by Robin Williams, while granting three wishes, sets restrictions. He prohibits wishing for more than three wishes, he prohibits wishing to bring others back from the dead, and finally, he prohibits the wisher from wishing for another person to fall in love with.

The potential consequences of this last wish are perhaps best explored in the movie "Obsession" - now in theatres.

Directed by newcomer Curry Barker, Obsession follows Bear, a young man who has a crush on Nikki, his young co-worker. Desperate for her affection, Bear’s luck changes when he stumbles upon a One Wish Willow, a device which allows the user one wish of their choosing. 

Bear, believing the device to have no real power, wishes for Nikki to love him more than anyone in the world, but is slowly shocked to learn that the wish not only worked, but worked in horrifying ways. 

This is the first feature film ever directed by Barker, who is just 26 years old. To call Obsession a strong start would be a massive understatement. 

Barker takes this concept to its most depraved and unsettling lengths, drawing on themes of autonomy, control and infatuation. Barker’s use of camera lighting creates a feeling of despair and intimacy. 

Credit must be given to the film’s lead actor, Michael Johnston, who delivers a surprisingly villainous edge to the role of Bear, a part that would usually fill the “victim” archetype in a traditional horror film. 

However, the true star of Obsession is Inde Navarrette, who portrays Nikki. Navarrette in some ways plays two parts, Nikki the young woman, and Nikki the obsessed entity who inhabits her. 

Navarrette’s performance is arguably one of the most memorable in years. The ticks, facial expressions and eccentric mannerisms that Navarrette brings to the part brilliantly create a character who is desperately trying to be human, without knowing how to act like one, and her performance deserves serious consideration from the Academy Awards. 

Obsession, being arguably one of the most unsettling horror movies in years, is not for everyone. Barker explores every aspect of this premise, tackling the most debauched elements of toxic love. 

Those however, who can stomach the bleakness of Obsession’s setup, can expect an effective and successfully discomforting movie, which is unlikely to leave the subconscious of audiences for years to come.