“Obsession” is on track to become the highest-grossing horror release in Australia and New Zealand in the past decade after surpassing $25 million at the box office.
Eight weeks after opening in mid-May, the film, distributed by Rialto Distribution, remains one of the region’s strongest performers, holding a place in the box office top five. The sustained performance puts “Obsession” on track to become the highest-grossing horror film released across Australia and New Zealand in the past decade.
Kelly Rogers, CEO of Rialto Distribution, said: “To see ‘Obsession’ reach $25 million across Australia and New Zealand is an incredible achievement. Horror has always been one of the most powerful theatrical genres, and audiences have embraced this film in a way few could have predicted. This milestone is a testament to strong word-of-mouth, passionate fans and the enduring appeal of seeing a truly terrifying story unfold on the big screen.”
Written, directed and edited by first-time feature filmmaker Curry Barker, “Obsession” follows Bear (Michael Johnston), a shy music store employee whose wish for his co-worker and long-time crush Nikki (Inde Navarrette) to fall in love with him comes with terrifying consequences. The cast also includes Cooper Tomlinson, Megan Lawless and Andy Richter.
Produced on a modest budget, the film has emerged as one of the year’s breakout theatrical success stories, buoyed by strong audience word-of-mouth and positive critical reception. Its extended run at the box office stands out at a time when horror titles often experience steep declines after opening weekend.
The milestone comes as Rialto Distribution prepares a busy release slate spanning international and Australian productions. Upcoming titles include Spanish drama “La Bola Negra,” Cannes Best Director winner Javier Calvo and Javier Ambrossi’s latest feature; “The Weight,” starring Ethan Hawke and Russell Crowe; “De Gaulle,” a two-part biographical drama about the French Resistance leader; “A Town in Nova Scotia,” featuring Bill Nighy; and Bella Ramsey-led coming-of-age film “Sunny Dancer.”
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The distributor will also release “Young Washington” and biblical epic “Zero A.D.” in partnership with Angel Studios, alongside local productions including “Wolf Creek: Legacy,” “Sia: My Elastic Heart” and the Delta Goodrem-led country music drama “Little Miracles.”
“Obsession” is currently screening in cinemas across Australia and New Zealand.