What's Happening?
Focus Features is reportedly in exclusive negotiations to acquire the horror film 'Obsession' from YouTube sensation Curry Barker at the Toronto Film Festival. The deal, which is expected to be upwards of $15 million, marks the first major acquisition at the festival. 'Obsession' is a Midnight Madness horror movie featuring Michael Johnston and Inde Navarrette, centered around a romantic wish that leads to a sinister enchantment. Curry Barker, known for his previous work 'Milk & Serial', which gained significant attention on YouTube, is making his feature directorial debut with 'Obsession'. The film premiered at the Royal Alexandra Theatre, and Capstone is handling international sales.
Why It's Important?
The acquisition of 'Obsession' by Focus Features highlights the growing interest in horror films within the U.S. film industry, particularly those emerging from digital platforms like YouTube. This deal underscores the potential for online creators to transition into mainstream cinema, offering new opportunities for content diversification and audience engagement. Focus Features' investment in 'Obsession' reflects its strategy to expand its horror portfolio, following the success of 'Nosferatu', which grossed $182 million globally. This move could influence other studios to explore similar acquisitions, potentially reshaping the landscape of horror film production and distribution.
What's Next?
As Focus Features finalizes the deal, the film 'Obsession' is likely to receive a broader release, potentially reaching a wider audience beyond the festival circuit. The success of this acquisition could encourage other filmmakers from digital platforms to pursue feature-length projects, fostering innovation in the horror genre. Additionally, Focus Features may continue to seek similar opportunities to strengthen its position in the specialty horror market, possibly leading to more collaborations with emerging creators.
