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YouTuber’s “Obsession” Grows Like E.T., Faces Violence Backlash

7/4/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Obsession screened in the United States on May 11, 2026.
Curry Barker, a 26-year-old YouTuber, wrote, directed and edited the film.
Box-office data show Obsession is the only film since E.T. to grow sales in its second and third weekends.
Critics warn that the film’s violence—Nikki Freeman beating Sarah’s face into a brick 22 times—may reinforce victim-blaming despite its anti-incel premise.

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Story summary

Obsession screened in the United States on May 11, 2026.
Curry Barker, a 26-year-old YouTuber, wrote, directed and edited the film.
Box-office data show Obsession is the only film since E.T. to grow sales in its second and third weekends.
Critics warn that the film’s violence—Nikki Freeman beating Sarah’s face into a brick 22 times—may reinforce victim-blaming despite its anti-incel premise.