The summer movie season has been a boon for horror enthusiasts, with two standout releases: 'Obsession' and 'Backrooms'. These films have not only dominated the box office but have also captivated audiences with their unique approaches to the genre. While they differ in style, both films have achieved massive success, proving that low-budget horror can be a profitable venture for Hollywood. This article explores ten movies that share elements with these hits, offering a diverse range of recommendations for fans of 'Obsession' and 'Backrooms'.
Keeper (2025): A psychological thriller that explores the manipulation of romantic relationships. Directed by Osgood Perkins, it follows a woman's unsettling weekend getaway with her boyfriend, raising questions about her sanity. The film's stripped-down approach and focus on the woman's perspective create a chilling atmosphere, making it a worthy companion to 'Obsession'.
Skinamarink (2023): An experimental horror film that delves into the eerie and surreal. With a lack of onscreen characters, it evokes a sense of unease and the feeling of being alone. This movie is a must-watch for those who appreciated the atmospheric and glitchy nature of 'Backrooms'.
Barbarian (2022): Directed by Zach Cregger, this dark comedy with horror elements explores gender politics and trust. The story of two strangers sharing an Airbnb, one man and one woman, becomes a twisted tale of suspicion and revelation. 'Barbarian' plays to its audience's expectations, offering both laughter and suspense, similar to 'Obsession'.
Us (2019): Jordan Peele's follow-up to 'Get Out' presents a family vacation turned nightmare. The film's success lies in its ability to evoke discomfort and unease, similar to 'Backrooms', while also maintaining Peele's trademark humor. The performances, especially by Lupita Nyong'o, are a highlight.
Ingrid Goes West (2017): A dark comedy about an unhealthy obsession with social media. The film explores the psychological impact of internet culture, making it a fitting companion to 'Backrooms'. The story of Ingrid's fixation on an influencer and her subsequent friendship adds a layer of complexity and humor.
Being John Malkovich (1999): A dark comedy with a surreal twist, this film allows viewers to enter the consciousness of John Malkovich. With its unconventional premise and corporate spaces, it blends elements of 'Obsession' and 'Backrooms' while offering a unique and hilarious experience.
The Blair Witch Project (1999): A landmark found-footage horror film, it revolutionized the genre. The movie's success lies in its ability to blur reality and fiction, similar to 'Backrooms'. The low-budget production and effective marketing hook made it a worldwide sensation, setting a precedent for 'Backrooms'.
Cube (1997): A cult horror/sci-fi film with a unique take on 'liminal space'. Strangers find themselves trapped in an infinite network of passages, creating a sense of unease and mystery. The film's influence on 'Backrooms' is evident, despite its more traditional suspense and gore.
Possession (1981): A psychological horror classic from Poland, it explores a dysfunctional relationship with doppelgangers. The film's intense and daring performance by Isabelle Adjani earned her a Cannes Film Festival award. 'Possession' shares a similar focus on psychological horror and intense storytelling with 'Obsession'.
Carnival of Souls (1962): A dreamlike proto-horror film, it follows a woman's journey after a car crash. Directed by Herk Harvey, it creates a vivid atmosphere with its real locations and industrial film background. 'Carnival of Souls' took a winding path to recognition, becoming a seminal work of mid-century horror, much like 'Backrooms'.
These films offer a diverse range of horror experiences, each with its unique take on the genre, making them essential viewing for fans of 'Obsession' and 'Backrooms'.
