The Horror of Obsession: Why Stephen King’s B+ Matters More Than You Think
There’s something oddly captivating about a horror film that lingers in your mind long after the credits roll. Curry Barker’s Obsession is one such film. With its modest $750,000 budget, it’s become a cultural phenomenon, joining the ranks of rare box office successes in a post-2020 landscape. But what’s truly fascinating is how it’s managed to capture the attention of both audiences and critics—and, perhaps most intriguingly, Stephen King himself.
Personally, I think King’s B+ rating for Obsession is more revealing than it seems. On the surface, it’s a solid grade, but coming from the Master of Horror, it feels almost… restrained. King, after all, is known for his effusive praise when he loves something (see his thoughts on The Exorcist) and his scathing critiques when he doesn’t (cue The Shining debate). So, what does this muted enthusiasm say about Obsession?
The Monkey’s Paw Trope: Old Wine in a New Bottle?
At its core, Obsession is a modern twist on the classic Monkey’s Paw story—a tale of wishes gone horribly wrong. The protagonist, Bear, uses a magical artifact to make his co-worker, Nikki, fall in love with him. Spoiler alert: it backfires spectacularly. What makes this particularly fascinating is how Barker updates the trope for a contemporary audience. The film isn’t just about the horror of the supernatural; it’s about the horror of human desperation and the awkwardness of unrequited love.
One thing that immediately stands out is the film’s blend of humor and horror. There’s a scene where Nikki, now under the spell, tapes Bear’s door shut with duct tape, all while smiling sweetly. Bear, terrified but unwilling to upset her, pretends everything is fine. It’s a moment that’s both chilling and absurd—the kind of dark comedy that feels almost Farrelly Brothers-esque. This raises a deeper question: Can horror and humor coexist without diluting each other? In Obsession, they do, and it’s a testament to Barker’s skill.
Stephen King’s Commentary: What’s He Really Saying?
King’s Threads post about the film is brief but telling: “I gave Obsession a B+ in my movie book, but I keep thinking about it. That weird mixture of humor and horror.” What this really suggests is that Obsession isn’t just another horror flick—it’s a film that sticks with you. King’s restrained praise might seem underwhelming, but I think it’s a backhanded compliment. He’s acknowledging that the film is good, but not groundbreaking. It’s a B+ student who shows potential but hasn’t quite reached an A.
What many people don’t realize is that King’s taste in horror is both eclectic and critical. He’s not afraid to call out films that miss the mark (looking at you, Kubrick’s Shining), but he’s also quick to celebrate originality. Obsession clearly has elements he admires, but it doesn’t seem to have blown him away. This raises a broader question: In an era of endless remakes and reboots, what does it take for a horror film to truly stand out?
The Rise of YouTube Horror Filmmakers: A New Wave?
Curry Barker is part of a growing trend: YouTube creators turned filmmakers. Alongside names like Kane Parsons (Backrooms) and Markiplier (Iron Lung), Barker represents a new generation of horror auteurs. What makes this particularly fascinating is how these creators are redefining the genre. They’re not just making films; they’re building communities, leveraging their online followings to bring their visions to life.
From my perspective, this democratization of filmmaking is both exciting and unsettling. On one hand, it’s refreshing to see fresh voices enter the industry. On the other, it raises questions about the sustainability of this model. Can these creators maintain their independence, or will they eventually be absorbed into the Hollywood machine? Barker’s next projects—a horror comedy and a Texas Chainsaw Massacre reboot—suggest he’s already navigating this tension.
The Broader Implications: What Obsession Tells Us About Modern Horror
If you take a step back and think about it, Obsession is more than just a horror film. It’s a reflection of our anxieties about love, technology, and the consequences of our desires. The One Wish Willow isn’t just a magical artifact; it’s a metaphor for the ways we try to control our lives, often with disastrous results.
A detail that I find especially interesting is the film’s ending. Without spoiling it, let’s just say it’s bleak—a far cry from the tidy resolutions of many mainstream horror films. This raises a deeper question: Are audiences ready for horror that doesn’t offer easy answers? In a world where happy endings are the norm, Obsession dares to leave us unsettled.
Final Thoughts: Why Obsession Matters
In my opinion, Obsession is a film that defies easy categorization. It’s scary, funny, and thought-provoking—a rare combination in any genre. Stephen King’s B+ rating might seem like a minor detail, but it’s a reminder that even the best films have room for improvement.
What this really suggests is that Obsession is a stepping stone, not a destination. Curry Barker has proven he can make a hit, but the true test will be whether he can sustain that success. As for the film itself, it’s a reminder that horror, at its best, is about more than jumpscares and gore. It’s about exploring the darkest corners of the human experience—and, occasionally, finding a laugh or two along the way.
So, is Obsession worth watching? Absolutely. But don’t just take my word for it. Go see it, and then ask yourself: What would you wish for—and what price would you be willing to pay?
