Obsession Saiai horror film grosses $4 billion worldwide

The low‑budget American horror‑comedy "Obsession Saiai" (original title "Obsession"), directed by Curry Barker, opened on July 17 and quickly became a global phenomenon. Box‑office data show the film has surpassed $4 billion in worldwide ticket sales, making it the highest‑grossing original horror movie of the century.

The story follows an introverted young man named Bear who uses a wish‑granting talisman to win the love of his crush, Nikki. The granted wish spirals into a violent obsession, exploring themes of lost agency and the dark side of love. Barker explains that the film balances humor and terror, insisting that comedic moments must serve the narrative and preserve the horror’s impact. Critics have highlighted the blend of horror, satire and youthful drama, as well as the performances of Michael Johnston (Bear) and Indi Navarette (Nikki). The movie’s success has been noted in Japan and elsewhere as a rare crossover of genre innovation and commercial triumph.