Key facts
- Curry Barker's horror film 'Obsession' has grossed $286 million worldwide on a $750,000 budget.
- The film's opening weekend gross was $17 million, but it demonstrated remarkable staying power.
- On its fifth weekend, 'Obsession' ranked second in North American box office, outgrossing 'Star Wars: The Mandalorian and Grogu'.
- The film is the biggest hit in Focus Features' 24-year history.
- Barker, a former YouTube creator, is seen as a new type of filmmaker connecting with a generation.
- The success of 'Obsession' and A24's 'Backrooms' highlights YouTube as a source for emerging filmmakers and draws Gen Z to theaters.
Curry Barker's microbudget horror film 'Obsession' has become an unexpected box office phenomenon, grossing $286 million worldwide on a $750,000 budget. The film, which opened with $17 million, defied expectations with its remarkable staying power, outperforming major studio releases and becoming the biggest hit in Focus Features' 24-year history.
Barker, who built a following on YouTube with sketch comedy and short films, has been lauded for his unique vision and ability to connect with audiences, particularly Gen Z moviegoers. His journey from digital creator to mainstream filmmaker is being compared to that of 1970s auteurs. The film's success has also prompted a new bet among Barker, his manager, and agent: if 'Obsession' hits $300 million, they will all get tattoos.
The film's plot, loosely inspired by a 'Simpsons' Halloween episode, involves a character wishing for his crush to love him, with disturbing consequences. This originality and connection with a generation that grew up online is seen as key to its appeal. Focus Features has postponed the video-on-demand release due to the film's continued theatrical success. Industry observers note that 'Obsession,' alongside A24's 'Backrooms,' signals a potential shift in Hollywood, with YouTube-bred filmmakers and a younger demographic driving theatrical attendance.