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[CULTURE] · France, Germany, Spain, Netherlands, Finland · 10 sources

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Director Curry Barker turns down $2 million to rewrite hero in horror hit “Obsession”

Director Curry Barker said companies offered him $2 million to rewrite the script of his film *Obsession – Du sollst mich lieben* so that the character Bear would become a conventional hero. He refused, explaining that changing the story would ruin his vision of a morally ambiguous protagonist and undermine the film’s horror premise.

The decision has drawn attention as the film became the year’s most discussed horror release, breaking box‑office records with more than $300 million worldwide and surpassing one million tickets sold in France. Critics praised its low‑budget efficiency and the unsettling narrative, while audiences responded to its twisted romance premise.

Lead actor Michael Johnston described the shoot as emotionally intense, saying he felt “like his life was over” after particularly harrowing scenes. The film’s success has been highlighted in multiple markets, including Germany and Spain, and has sparked widespread discussion about indie horror’s commercial potential.