In the realm of horror cinema, a few films have emerged as unexpected box office triumphs, captivating audiences and solidifying the genre's potential for mainstream success. Among these, 'Obsession' and 'Backrooms' stand out as notable examples, each with its own unique style and impact. These films have not only overperformed at the box office but have also brought a younger demographic to the cinema, showcasing the power of low-budget horror to resonate with audiences. As we delve into the world of these films, it's intriguing to explore other cinematic experiences that share thematic elements with 'Obsession' and 'Backrooms'. Here's a curated list of ten movies that, in their own ways, capture the essence of these horror masterpieces, presented in reverse chronological order.
Keeper (2025)
Osgood Perkins' 'Keeper' is a psychological horror film that delves into the manipulation of romantic relationships. It follows a woman, Tatiana Maslany, on a weekend getaway with her boyfriend, Rossif Sutherland, where a series of unusual events unnerve and disorient her. The film's stripped-down approach and focus on the woman's perspective create a sense of unease and intrigue, making it a worthy companion piece to 'Obsession'. The exploration of possession and the blurring of reality and perception adds a layer of complexity to the narrative, making 'Keeper' a must-watch for fans of the genre.
Skinamarink (2023)
'Skinamarink' is an experimental horror film that takes a different approach to the genre. With a lack of real onscreen characters, the movie evokes a sense of unease and the eerie feeling of a child waking up in the middle of the night. This experimental nature might not appeal to all, but for those who appreciate the glitchy and uncanny, 'Skinamarink' offers a unique experience. Its atmosphere and lack of narrative drive create a sense of discomfort that resonates with the themes of 'Backrooms'.
Barbarian (2022)
Zach Cregger's 'Barbarian' is a twisty horror story with dark comedy elements. The film explores gender politics and the dynamics between a man and a woman who accidentally book into the same Airbnb property. Cregger's use of a Trojan Horse narrative device adds depth to the story, making it a bold pivot in horror storytelling. The movie's focus on playing to the audience and its ability to inspire both laughter and screams make it a standout in the genre.
Us (2019)
Jordan Peele's 'Us' is a psychological horror film that delves into the concept of doppelgangers and the eerie feeling of discomfort. The movie's success in grossing and its surreal sensibility make it a notable entry in the list. The performances, led by Lupita Nyong'o, are exceptional, and the film's exploration of American artifacts adds a layer of complexity. 'Us' shares a similar interest in evoking familiar feelings of unease with 'Backrooms', making it a compelling watch.
Ingrid Goes West (2017)
'Ingrid Goes West' is a dark comedy that explores the complexities of an imbalanced relationship. The film's focus on social media and internet psychology makes it an intriguing companion piece to 'Backrooms'. The movie's black humor and exploration of obsession create a sense of unease and discomfort, similar to 'Obsession'. 'Ingrid Goes West' is a thought-provoking watch that delves into the darker aspects of human behavior.
Being John Malkovich (1999)
Spike Jonze and Charlie Kaufman's 'Being John Malkovich' is a dark comedy that explores the concept of a portal leading into the consciousness of actor John Malkovich. The film's mixture of depressing corporate spaces and unconventional possessions creates a unique atmosphere. While not a horror film, it shares thematic elements with 'Obsession' and 'Backrooms', offering a different perspective on reality and perception.
The Blair Witch Project (1999)
'The Blair Witch Project' is a found-footage horror blockbuster that delves into the mysterious and spooky. The movie's success as a low-budget film and its ability to create a sense of unease and discomfort make it a notable entry. The film's marketing campaign, which blurred reality and fiction, shares similarities with 'Backrooms'. 'The Blair Witch Project' is a testament to the power of scrappy filmmaking and a great marketing hook.
Cube (1997)
'Cube' is a cult horror/sci-fi film that explores the concept of liminal space. The movie's set-up of strangers waking up in an unfamiliar room and facing deadly traps creates a sense of suspense and unease. The film's influence on the 'Backrooms' phenomenon is evident, as it offers a similar sense of disorientation and the unknown. 'Cube' is a cult classic that has gained a dedicated following over the years.
Possession (1981)
Andrzej Żuławski's 'Possession' is a psychological horror film that explores a horrifically dysfunctional relationship. The movie's focus on possession and the blurring of reality and perception create a sense of unease and discomfort. The stunning performance of Isabelle Adjani, who won the Best Actress award at the 1981 Cannes Film Festival, adds to the film's impact. 'Possession' is a cult classic that has influenced modern horror films about imbalanced relationships.
Carnival of Souls (1962)
'Carnival of Souls' is a dreamlike proto-horror film that explores the concept of a woman haunted by strange figures after a car crash. The movie's use of real locations and its vivid atmosphere create a sense of unease and discomfort. While initially ignored upon release, 'Carnival of Souls' has gained notoriety over the years and is now considered a seminal work of mid-century horror. Its old-fashioned path to notoriety adds to its allure and makes it a must-watch for horror enthusiasts.
These films, each with their own unique style and impact, showcase the diverse nature of horror cinema. From psychological thrillers to experimental horror, these movies capture the essence of 'Obsession' and 'Backrooms' while offering their own distinct experiences. Whether it's the manipulation of relationships, the exploration of liminal spaces, or the blurring of reality and fiction, these films provide a captivating journey into the darker corners of the human psyche.
