Surprise indie horror film Obsession has made a significant impact at the U.S. box office over Memorial Day weekend. It boosted cinema earnings during a time when many releases are available on streaming platforms.
Audiences Obsessed with ‘Obsession’
The debut feature from 26-year-old former YouTuber Curry Barker outperformed expectations for the horror genre. Released in U.S. theaters on May 15, Obsession saw a remarkable audience increase over Memorial Day weekend, leaving studio analysts searching for past comparisons. Focus Features released the supernatural horror movie to a strong $23.9 million weekend, rising above $30 million with Monday’s sales.
The production had a budget of just $750,000, resulting in substantial profit. Filmed in only 20 days, it received positive reviews. Critics especially praised the performance of 25-year-old Inde Navarrette in the lead role as Nikki.
The film is expected to gross $79 million worldwide. To date, it has earned $60,734,010 in U.S. theaters alone. Over Memorial Day weekend, the box office reached $219,245,046, with Obsession being a major contributor.
The movie earned millions from 2,655 U.S. theaters in its second weekend, with ticket sales 39% higher than its $17.2 million debut in 2,615 cinemas. This achievement is uncommon in a genre that often loses momentum after opening weekend.
Unique Growth for a Horror Film
Jason Blum, known for work in horror films like Get Out and Halloween, praised the film he executive produced. He commented on its exceptional second-weekend growth. He noted that Obsession is the sole wide-release horror film to reach such a scale with a 30% rise, earning $22.4 million.
Hila Harary, a trend forecaster at Tectonic Shift, spoke to Newsweek about the film’s broad appeal. She explained that it capitalizes on post-pandemic nostalgia for the late ’90s and early 2000s. She highlighted the simple entertainment of that era that many find comforting now.
Harary also mentioned that audiences seek escapism amid current economic challenges. Going to the movies offers an affordable, contained experience, a brief escape from daily stresses. She emphasized that low-budget films with a less corporate feel appeal strongly to younger audiences.
Plot of ‘Obsession’
The supernatural horror centers on Bear, portrayed by Michael Johnston, a music store clerk captivated by his childhood friend Nikki. He buys a magical toy promising to grant wishes. Bear uses it to win Nikki’s affection, fulfilling a long-held dream. However, the wish leads to terrifying consequences, spiraling out of control. The cast includes Cooper Tomlinson, Megan Lawless, and comedian Andy Richter.
Box Office Impact
During Memorial Day weekend, Obsession earned $23.9 million. Including May 25’s sales, it surpassed the projected $28.2 million, reaching over $30 million. In North America, it has generated $60 million, contributing to a worldwide total of $75 million. The film was produced on a modest $750,000 budget.
The overall box office gross for Memorial Day weekend was $219,245,046.
Other Theater Performances
Ask E. Jean, a documentary about E. Jean Carroll, premiered in the U.S. on May 22 to positive reviews. Other major film releases have helped increase box office numbers recently. Successful titles such as Star Wars: The Mandalorian and Grogu, Michael, and The Devil Wears Prada 2 have each exceeded $100 million globally.
This year’s top five global films include:
Super Mario Galaxy Movie,
Michael,
Project Hail Mary,
Pegasus 3,
and The Devil Wears Prada 2.