Curry Barker’s ‘Obsession’ Becomes $230 Million Horror Hit as A24 Names Him to Revive ‘Texas Chainsaw Massacre’

Independent horror film Obsession, directed by 20-year-old Curry Barker, has grossed $230 million worldwide on a $750,000 budget, surpassing major studio releases like the latest Star Wars film in the U.S., according to Box Office Mojo. The movie’s success has positioned Barker as a rising force in the genre, with A24 confirming he will write and direct a reboot of the Texas Chainsaw Massacre franchise, the studio announced on April 5, 2024.

Why ‘Obsession’ Became a Word-of-Mouth Sensation

Obsession, which follows a man’s descent into violence after using a cursed toy called the “One Wish Willow” to manipulate his crush, has drawn comparisons to cult classics like Hereditary and It Follows. The film’s $230 million haul—nearly 300 times its budget—marks one of the most profitable independent horror releases in recent years, according to The Numbers. Barker, who wrote and directed the film, told Variety in a 2024 interview that the story’s “uncomfortable” themes of obsession and manipulation resonated with audiences. “It’s not just about horror; it’s about the psychological toll of control,” he said.

The film’s success has also sparked speculation about a potential sequel. Producer James Harris told Variety in March 2024 that a follow-up to Obsession is “on the radar,” though no official details have been released. Barker, however, has hinted at expanding the film’s universe. In a 2024 Q&A, he revealed that his upcoming project Anything but Ghosts will include a reference to the “tragic fallout” of the One Wish Willow, including a news report about a “triple homicide” linked to the cursed toy.

What’s Next for Curry Barker? ‘Anything but Ghosts’ and a ‘Texas Chainsaw Massacre’ Reboot

Barker is currently developing Anything but Ghosts, a comedy-horror film starring Aaron Paul and Bryce Dallas Howard. The story follows two fake paranormal investigators whose scam unravels when they encounter real supernatural forces. Barker, who also stars in the film, has confirmed it will exist within the “Obsession Cinematic Universe” (OCU), though the exact connections remain unclear. Cooper Tomlinson, who played a key role in Obsession, will co-write and star in the project, according to The Hollywood Reporter.

Meanwhile, A24 has tapped Barker to reboot the Texas Chainsaw Massacre franchise, which has seen multiple iterations since its 1974 debut. The original film, directed by Tobe Hooper, has been a major influence on Barker, who cited it as the inspiration for his career in a 2024 interview with British GQ. “I want to lean into the rawness of the family dynamic,” he said. “This isn’t just about jump scares—it’s about the discomfort of what’s happening on that farm.”

The reboot will be Barker’s first major studio project, following Obsession’s independent success. A24 has also announced a separate Texas Chainsaw Massacre TV series, with Glen Powell and JT Mollner developing the adaptation, according to Deadline.

Why Barker’s Rise Matters in the Horror Genre

Barker’s rapid ascent highlights a shift in the horror industry toward younger, genre-savvy filmmakers. His work on Obsession—which blends psychological tension with visceral horror—has drawn comparisons to A24’s previous hits like Hereditary and Midsommar. “He’s capturing the same kind of unsettling energy that made those films stand out,” said film critic David Ehrlich of IndieWire in a 2024 review.

The success of Obsession also underscores the growing appetite for original horror films. Despite the dominance of blockbuster sequels, independent releases like Barker’s have proven that audiences are willing to embrace bold, unconventional stories. As Barker prepares to tackle the Texas Chainsaw Massacre reboot, his next projects will be closely watched by both fans and industry insiders.