Kartik Aaryan, Ananya Panday Are “Absolutely Obsessed” With Hollywood’s Surprise Horror Hit ‘Obsession’
Kartik Aaryan and Ananya Panday can’t stop raving about ‘Obsession’, the low-budget horror phenomenon that has stunned audiences and grossed over USD 148 million worldwide.
When a modest USD 750,000 to USD 1 million budget turns into a worldwide box office phenomenon crossing the USD 100 million mark, you know you have a monumental hit on your hands. Hollywood's latest supernatural psychological horror thriller, ‘Obsession’, is rapidly becoming one of the biggest unexpected success stories of 2026. Since its US debut on May 15 and its subsequent theatrical release in India on May 29, the film has generated immense buzz – and now, Bollywood stars Kartik Aaryan and Ananya Panday are officially joining the film’s growing fan club.
Kartik Aaryan was among the first Indian celebrities to praise the movie. Taking to his Instagram, the actor shared his reaction: "One of the best horror films after a very long time. Absolutely obsessed with #Obsession. Don't miss this one." Kartik is no stranger to the genre; fans have loved his evolution as Rooh Baba in Anees Bazmee’s horror-comedies ‘Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2’ (2022) and ‘Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3’ (2024), where he tackled supernatural mysteries and the presence of Manjulika.
Following suit was his ‘Tu Meri Main Tera Main Tera Tu Meri’ and ‘Pati Patni Aur Woh’ co-star, Ananya Panday. Taking to her Instagram Stories, she revealed that the psychological thriller left a lasting impression on her long after the credits rolled. "I can't get this film out of my head... safe to say I am obsessed," she wrote.
A YouTube Creator’s Theatrical Triumph
The film marks the feature theatrical directorial debut of 26-year-old filmmaker and former YouTube creator Curry Barker. Prior to ‘Obsession’, Curry Barker built a fiercely loyal following among horror fans with low-budget online projects and short films, most notably ‘Milk & Serial’, which achieved cult status within the genre community. For his leap into mainstream cinema, Curry Barker wore multiple hats, serving as the writer, director, and editor of the project.
What Is Obsession All About?
The chilling narrative centres on Bear (played by Michael Johnston), a shy, lonely, and hopeless romantic working at a music store. Bear has been quietly harbouring feelings for his childhood friend and co-worker, Nikki (Inde Navarrette). After yet another failed attempt to confess his love, Bear turns to a mysterious crystal shop where he purchases a strange supernatural toy and trinket called the One Wish Willow.
He makes a desperate wish: for Nikki to love him more than anyone else in the world. The wish comes true, but with terrifying consequences. Nikki’s affection turns unstable, overwhelming, suffocating, and almost violent. Her love transforms into a deeply disturbing fixation as she reacts with panic whenever he leaves and displays increasingly terrifying behaviour.
The film also features Cooper Tomlinson, Megan Lawless, and Andy Richter in important supporting roles. Adding to the film’s edgy reputation in India, the Censor Board reportedly cut 38 seconds from Obsession despite its 'A' rating, leaving some horror fans miffed.
Taking Box Office By Storm
‘Obsession’ is a colossal triumph, having grossed USD 148 million at the worldwide box office. It is also steadily finding an eager audience in India. According to Sacnilk, the film recorded a Rs 5.40 crore gross at the Indian box office, landing a net collection of Rs 4.50 crore over its opening weekend across 2,010 shows nationwide.
It opened on Friday with a nett collection of Rs 1.75 crore from 859 shows, recording a 34 percent occupancy. By Saturday, it witnessed a significant jump, raking in Rs 2.75 crore from 1,151 shows as occupancy surged to 48 percent.
