'Obsession' director Curry Barker and star Inde Navarrette reflect on film’s success

'Obsession' director Curry Barker and star Inde Navarrette discuss film’s success and pressure for what comes next

Obsession director Curry Barker and lead actress Inde Navarrette have reflected on the success of the film one year after its premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival.

The film was made on a $750,000 budget and has grossed more than $500 million globally, making it one of Hollywood’s most profitable productions, according to the supplied report.

"It feels like a one-year anniversary of our lives changing," Barker told AFP as he returned to TIFF with Navarrette.

Obsession follows Bear, played by Michael Johnston, who struggles to admit his feelings for his friend Nikki, played by Navarrette.

After wishing that Nikki loved him as much as he loves her, Bear discovers that his wish has unexpected consequences.

"Be careful what you wish for," Barker said, referring to the film’s premise and its unexpected success.

"What's funny is that I don't think any of us anticipated how big this movie would become and I think that most of it is a very, very positive thing, and we're so happy that the movie did so well," he said.

Barker, who began making films through YouTube, said the film’s performance has also created pressure around his next project.

"Obviously there's the exterior pressure of the world of, 'Hey, you know, your next movie better be as good as this last (one),'" he said.

Navarrette described the experience as a roller coaster and said she was "taking it day by day." The success has brought new opportunities, including her role as Rogue in the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

"I think whenever you're being put in a position like this, it's really important to look back at yourself and go, 'Okay, well, what changes can I do to keep that original creativity and to keep what I can, as much as I can, authentically?' Because it's a lot!" Navarrette told AFP.

The actress also addressed viral moments from Obsession that became memes.

"I love being a meme... it's definitely a really fun thing," she said.

Barker said the film’s performance showed that "The barrier for entry is open," adding, "I think that's the lesson."