Obsession: A Unique Horror Romance Campaign Across Major Cities
By Published May 6, 2026, 4:42 PM EDT As a graduate of Columbia University in New York City, Tatiana studied theater and comparative literature. She has been passionate about all manner of storytelling from Jane Austen adaptations to anime. Aside from writing for Screen Rant, she co-hosts podcasts: The Flash Podcast and Ladies With Gumption. Summary Generate a summary of this story follow Follow followed Followed Like Like Log in Here is a fact-based summary of the story contents: Try something different: Show me the facts Explain it like I’m 5 Give me a lighthearted recap
Focus Features' new horror romance, , has devised a unique way to get audiences' attention, and the proof is all over billboards in New York and Los Angeles.
From the mind of writer-director Curry Barker, Obsession is a dark take on the be-careful-what-you-wish-for trope that's told through the eyes of its hapless hero, Bear (Teen Wolf's Michael Johnston). Tired of hiding his feelings for Nikki (), Bear buys a "One Wish Willow" on a whim and tries to grant himself her love. To his utter amazement, the charm seems to work a little too well, and Nikki's affection is more dangerous than he could have ever bargained for.
In one of the most immersive press campaigns yet, billboards began cropping up in NYC and LA with written messages from Nikki herself. ScreenRant's reporter also received several messages from the lovestruck young woman, ranging from admiration to furious anger over not getting a response. A weekend visit to the home and a home-cooked meal completed the terrifying picture of a stalker who doesn't know anything about boundaries, as seen in .
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Fans who want to preview a bit of the Nikki experience can opt in by texting 724-876-4554 to receive messages and voice memos from the overly affectionate Nikki, but they should be prepared for a hair-raising experience! Watch the video above for a sense of Nikki's absolute devotion.
Obsession arrives in theaters on May 15, and fans can opt in to the text line at 724-876-4554. Los Angeles billboards can be found on Fairfax Ave. & Blackburn Ave, while New York City ones are on 1652 Broadway & W. 51st St.
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Cast
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Michael Johnston Bear -
Nikki
A hopeless romantic makes a wish for his long-time crush to fall in love with him, leading to a sinister enchantment.
Main Genre Executive Producer(s) David Haring, Leonora Darby, Jason Blum, Ruzanna Kegeyan, Mark Lane, Roman Viaris Expand Collapse
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