Focus Features has officially acquired the worldwide rights to Obsession, the debut horror feature from filmmaker Curry Barker. The film, which premiered in the Midnight section of the Toronto International Film Festival, will receive a theatrical release in 2026. Universal Pictures International will handle global distribution.
Described as a dark and provocative take on romantic fixation, Obsession follows a hopeless romantic who breaks the mysterious “One Wish Willow” to win his crush’s heart—only to discover that some wishes come at a terrible cost. The film stars Michael Johnston, Inde Navarrette, Cooper Tomlinson, Megan Lawless, and Andy Richter.
The project was written and directed by Barker, with James Harris (Teashop Productions), Haley Nicole Johnson (Under the Shell), and Christian Mercuri of Capstone Pictures producing. Capstone fully financed and represented worldwide rights, while CAA Media Finance co-represented domestic rights with Capstone.
Additionally, Obsession will screen for audiences during the inaugural FocusFest, taking place Saturday, October 18, 2025, on the Universal Studios Lot. The event, hosted by film enthusiast and TikTok personality Juju Green (@straw_hat_goofy), will feature screenings of Focus classics such as The Big Lebowski and Promising Young Woman, along with an advance showing of Bugonia.
Beyond screenings, attendees will experience immersive photo installations, themed food and beverage offerings, and exclusive merchandise inspired by Focus’s film library. Guests can also explore The F-Stop, Focus’s new traveling airstream showcasing costume and prop displays, cinematic galleries, and interactive exhibits.
