Overview
- The Curry Barker–directed horror Obsession, which opened in North America in mid-May, has topped $100 million worldwide on strong word-of-mouth and an unusual second-weekend box-office increase.
- India’s Central Board of Film Certification cleared the film with an A rating but required the removal of 38 seconds of footage, specified as 24 seconds of extreme violence and 14 seconds of graphic sexual activity, and inserted mandatory anti-tobacco and alcohol warnings.
- Several Indian journalists and filmmakers reported packed Obsession screenings with reportedly underage viewers present, prompting public criticism of enforcement of the A certificate at cinemas.
- Studios have put an early June digital release on hold after the theatrical surge, with Blumhouse executive Jason Blum saying the film’s theatrical window is now 'a big topic of conversation' and under active review.
- Made for roughly $750,000–$1 million in about 20 days, Obsession’s breakout success has accelerated director Curry Barker’s move from online creator to studio projects and is prompting studios to rethink how internet-native marketing drives theatrical returns.