Curry Barker has admitted that he has barely had time to process the extraordinary success of his horror film Obsession, explaining that the whirlwind of opportunities and industry attention has made it difficult for the achievement to sink in.
Speaking exclusively to PEOPLE at the 2026 Time100 Next Gala, where he was recognised as one of the year’s rising stars, the filmmaker reflected on how dramatically his career has changed since the release of the low-budget horror hit.
“There’s no way for it to settle in,” Barker said, describing how quickly everything has happened. The director also discussed receiving recognition from established Hollywood figures, including Seth Rogen, whose public praise for the film meant a great deal to him.
Barker revealed that just a year earlier, he was focused on preparing his next film, Anything But Ghosts, while hoping Obsession would earn between $10 million and $20 million at the box office. Considering the film was made on a budget of just $750,000, he believed that would already represent a significant achievement.
Instead, Obsession exceeded all expectations, earning approximately $523 million worldwide and becoming the highest-grossing film ever made on a budget of less than $1 million. The film was shot in just 20 days and stars Inde Navarrette and Michael Johnston.
The filmmaker also reflected on the support he has received from established industry figures. Among those who have publicly praised his work is Seth Rogen, whose recognition Barker described as particularly meaningful.
The film’s success has also attracted awards-season attention. Focus Features is reportedly campaigning for Oscar nominations for Barker in the directing, original screenplay and editing categories, while Navarrette and Johnston are being considered for acting nominations.
Despite the remarkable box-office performance, Barker is already looking towards his next projects. He has completed Anything But Ghosts, starring Aaron Paul and Bryce Dallas Howard, and is also attached to write and direct a new instalment of The Texas Chainsaw Massacre franchise.
For now, the filmmaker appears to be navigating an entirely different career following the unexpected success of his horror feature. Obsession is currently available to stream on Peacock.
