Movie enthusiasts worldwide have shown immense interest in the film “Obsession,” matching the fervor of its deranged, murderous protagonist. Recent reports from The Wrap revealed that this horror sensation has surpassed the $500 million mark at the global box office, making it the first original film of the 2020s to achieve this milestone.
“Obsession” has outperformed Pixar’s 2023 animated hit “Elemental,” which grossed $494.6 million globally, solidifying its position as the highest-grossing original movie in the post-pandemic era, as reported by The Express Tribune. Despite its micro-budget origins, the film, revolving around a woman consumed by violent fixation triggered by a supernatural wish, has become the most profitable movie made for under $1 million US.
With a production budget of a mere $750,000, “Obsession” has outshone the 1973 martial arts classic “Enter the Dragon,” which cost $850,000 to make and amassed $400 million US over various re-releases. The film, written and directed by 26-year-old Curry Barker, premiered on May 15 and has seen a consistent rise in weekly grosses, a feat not seen since “E.T.”
After concluding its successful theatrical run in the US on August 14, “Obsession” raked in $263.4 million domestically and an additional $238.1 million internationally, bringing its global earnings to over $501.5 million and still climbing, according to Box Office Mojo. The film is yet to premiere in South Korea, as per The Wrap’s updates.
Furthermore, this American horror gem has broken records as the highest-grossing festival acquisition ever, with Focus Features acquiring it post its debut at the Toronto International Film Festival in September. The film’s phenomenal commercial triumph has opened doors for its young cast, with lead actress Inde Navarette landing a role as Rogue in Marvel’s upcoming “X-Men” installment, while lead actor Michael Johnston is reportedly in talks to star alongside Brendan Fraser and Rachel Weisz in Universal’s new “The Mummy” film.
The overwhelming success of “Obsession” is undoubtedly paving the way for Barker’s next venture. As per The Wrap, the filmmaker is currently working on a horror project titled “Anything but Ghosts,” in which he will also star alongside co-writer Cooper Tomlinson.