TODAY’S PAPER | July 01, 2026 | EPAPER

‘Obsession’ arrives on digital after becoming 2026's horror breakout hit

The supernatural thriller became Focus Features' biggest film ever and includes bonus content with its home release


Pop Culture & Art July 01, 2026 2 min read
Photo: Universal

One of 2026's biggest horror success stories has officially made the jump from cinemas to home viewing. Obsession, the supernatural thriller written and directed by Curry Barker, is now available to buy or rent on major digital platforms following its remarkable theatrical run.

The film was released in cinemas on May 15 through Focus Features and quickly exceeded industry expectations. Produced on a modest budget, Obsession became a global box office phenomenon, earning more than $370m worldwide. The impressive total made it the highest grossing film in Focus Features' history, surpassing all previous releases from the studio.

The digital release became available on July 1 through services including Prime Video and Apple TV. Viewers can purchase the film for $24.99 or rent it for $19.99, giving audiences who missed its theatrical run the opportunity to watch the acclaimed horror film at home.

Beyond its commercial success, Obsession has also received an enthusiastic response from both critics and cinema audiences. The film earned an A minus CinemaScore from opening weekend audiences, an unusually strong result for a horror release. It also holds a 94% critics' score on Rotten Tomatoes, reflecting widespread praise for its storytelling, performances and inventive approach to supernatural horror.

The film centres on Bear, played by Michael Johnston, a young man who discovers a mysterious object known as the One Wish Willow. Hoping to win the affection of his crush Nikki, portrayed by Inde Navarrette, Bear uses the supernatural artefact to make her fall in love with him. However, what begins as a seemingly harmless wish soon develops into a terrifying situation as Nikki's growing attachment becomes increasingly disturbing and dangerous.

The supporting cast includes Cooper Tomlinson, Megan Lawless and Andy Richter, with Barker combining psychological tension, supernatural elements and dark humour throughout the story.

One of the most remarkable aspects of Obsession has been Barker's rapid rise within the film industry. The filmmaker, who built an audience through YouTube before making the feature, wrote and directed the film at just 20 years of age. His confident handling of suspense and pacing has drawn widespread praise, establishing him as one of horror's emerging creative talents.

The premium video on demand release also includes exclusive bonus features for fans interested in the production. These extras feature a behind the scenes documentary, offering insight into the creative process behind one of the year's biggest surprise hits.

Fans who prefer physical media will not have to wait much longer. Obsession is scheduled for release on DVD, Blu ray and 4K UHD on July 14. Following its premium digital and physical releases, the film is also expected to begin streaming on Peacock, although an official streaming date has yet to be announced.

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