by FIlmInk Staff
Obsession, the psychological horror from writer-director Curry Barker, is rewriting the rules of theatrical releasing in Australia, posting extraordinary week-on-week growth rarely seen from a horror title.
Produced by Blumhouse Productions and distributed locally by Rialto Distribution, Obsession surged 91% in its second week, before rising a further 68% in its third, a pattern that places the buzzworthy supernatural sensation among the most remarkable holds in recent Australian theatrical history.
Following its release on 14 May, total Australian box office now stands at $12,770,111, with the film having expanded from 155 screens at opening to 233 screens nationally – a screen count that reflects both exhibitor confidence and sustained audience demand. The results mirror an extraordinary global performance for the film, which has become one of the defining theatrical stories of 2026.
“To see impassioned, furiously talented creatives like Curry Barker bloom and blossom so undeniably in an era of IP-saturation is beyond thrilling to witness, let alone be a part of,” says Giles Edwards, Head of Acquisitions & Development, Rialto International. “Obsession‘s overwhelming global success is wonderful for cinema, a victory lap for the genre, a jolt of energy for fans, and, most importantly, a much-needed reminder for distributors and exhibitors that audiences *will* show up for that vital in-theater experience. The whole industry wins in this scenario, and we are incredibly grateful.”
Obsession stars Michael Johnston and Inde Navarrette, and follows a young man whose supernatural bid to win the heart of his crush produces terrifying consequences. The film premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival and holds dual 96% critical and 94% audience scores on Rotten Tomatoes.
The film’s word-of-mouth engine has been as remarkable as its box office trajectory. Obsession has ignited a sustained online conversation – particularly on TikTok – that has consistently sent new and returning audiences back to cinemas.
Don’t make a wish you can’t take back. Obsession is in Australian cinemas now.
IN CINEMAS NOW
“A terrific, chilling and astonishingly well acted horror film with a genuinely fantastic lead turn from an actress destined for stardom.” — Film Ink
“Terrifying, creepy, and filled with some of the most effective jump scares in recent history.” — Refinery 29 Australia
“Equal parts nasty, hilarious and emotionally intelligent, ‘Obsession‘ marks Curry Barker as a major new director to keep an eye on.” — Switch
“One of the best horror films you’re likely to see in cinemas this year” — Flicks
