In the realm of horror cinema, a few films have managed to captivate audiences and leave a lasting impact, especially when it comes to the unique and intriguing worlds they create. 'Obsession' and 'Backrooms' are two such examples, each offering a distinct take on the horror genre and leaving a significant mark on the box office. These films have not only entertained but also sparked curiosity and inspired a wave of similar works. As we delve into the world of these cinematic masterpieces, it's essential to explore the diverse range of movies that share elements with 'Obsession' and 'Backrooms', offering a unique blend of suspense, atmosphere, and storytelling. Here's a curated list of 10 films that will satisfy the cravings of 'Obsession' and 'Backrooms' enthusiasts, presented in reverse chronological order.
Keeper (2025): Directed by Osgood Perkins, 'Keeper' is a psychological horror film that explores the manipulation of romantic relationships. Set during a weekend getaway, the movie follows a woman's unsettling experiences and her growing suspicion about her boyfriend. With a stripped-down approach and a focus on the woman's perspective, 'Keeper' creates a chilling atmosphere, mirroring the intimate and unsettling nature of 'Obsession'.
Skinamarink (2023): This experimental horror film takes a different approach, focusing on the eerie feeling of a child waking up in the middle of the night. With minimal narrative and a lack of onscreen characters, 'Skinamarink' evokes a sense of unease and discomfort, similar to the surreal and glitchy atmosphere of 'Backrooms'. While it may not be for everyone, it offers a unique and unsettling experience.
Barbarian (2022): Directed by Zach Cregger, 'Barbarian' is a twisty horror-comedy that explores themes of gender politics and trust. The film's unique take on the #MeToo movement and its focus on playing to the audience's expectations make it a standout. With a blend of dark comedy and suspense, 'Barbarian' creates a thrilling and unexpected journey, much like 'Obsession'.
Us (2019): Jordan Peele's 'Us' is a psychological horror film that delves into the concept of doppelgangers and a family's vacation turned nightmare. With a mix of surrealism and retro elements, the movie creates a sense of unease and discomfort, similar to 'Backrooms'. The performances, especially by Lupita Nyong'o, add depth to the story, making it a must-watch for fans of both films.
Ingrid Goes West (2017): This dark comedy-drama explores the obsession and manipulation within social media. Directed by Matt Thompson and Alex Thompson, the film follows Ingrid, who, after her mother's death, becomes fixated on a social media influencer. With a keen understanding of internet psychology, 'Ingrid Goes West' shares common ground with both 'Obsession' and 'Backrooms', offering a unique perspective on the dark side of social media.
Being John Malkovich (1999): Directed by Spike Jonze and Charlie Kaufman, this dark comedy takes audiences into the consciousness of actor John Malkovich. With a unique premise and a blend of corporate spaces and unconventional possessions, 'Being John Malkovich' offers a surreal and thought-provoking experience, bridging the gap between 'Obsession' and 'Backrooms'.
The Blair Witch Project (1999): A groundbreaking found-footage horror film, 'The Blair Witch Project' introduced a new era of low-budget, high-impact filmmaking. With its ambiguous relationship between reality and fiction, the movie shares similarities with 'Backrooms' in its use of real-life spaces to create a sense of unease. The film's success and marketing strategy also reflect the power of 'Obsession' in creating a worldwide phenomenon.
Cube (1997): Directed by Vincenzo Natali, 'Cube' is a cult horror-sci-fi film that explores the concept of liminal spaces. With a set-up reminiscent of 'Saw', the movie presents strangers trapped in an infinite network of passages, creating a sense of disorientation and suspense. While 'Cube' offers more traditional horror elements, it shares the influence of 'Backrooms' in its exploration of confined spaces.
Possession (1981): Directed by Andrzej Żuławski, this psychological horror film delves into a horrifically dysfunctional relationship. With a focus on the wife's strange behavior and the involvement of doppelgangers, 'Possession' shares themes with 'Obsession' and offers a stunning performance by Isabelle Adjani. The film's restoration and availability on Shudder make it a must-watch for horror enthusiasts.
Carnival of Souls (1962): Directed by Herk Harvey, this dreamlike proto-horror film explores a woman's new life haunted by strange figures. With a unique atmosphere created through real locations and industrial film know-how, 'Carnival of Souls' offers a transfixing experience. While initially ignored, the film has gained recognition over the years and is now part of the Criterion Collection, making it a seminal work of mid-century horror.
These films, each with their unique take on horror and suspense, offer a diverse range of experiences that will satisfy the cravings of 'Obsession' and 'Backrooms' enthusiasts. From psychological thrillers to surreal explorations, these movies showcase the power of cinema in creating immersive and thought-provoking worlds.
