10 Horror Movies Fueled by Obsession

      Vanessa Maki showcases ten horror films centered on obsession…

      Obsession serves as an ideal theme for horror, as it rarely ends positively for anyone involved. Nevertheless, we continue to consume horror films that focus on stalking, kidnapping, fixation on someone or something, and similar topics. Join us as we take a brief journey to explore a collection of horror movies about obsession that might inspire you to ensure your location settings are off, keep strangers unaware of your address, and prepare for anything that comes your way…

      **Windows (1980)**

      Alongside Cruising (1980), this film sparked significant controversy and outrage due to its depiction of a queer antagonist. Windows follows a woman who becomes intensely obsessed with her neighbor, going to extreme measures to fulfill her fixation. The film is quite divisive, particularly because the antagonist embodies the “crazy lesbian” stereotype. Considering Windows was released in the ’80s, this reaction isn’t entirely surprising; however, it remains a film worth watching if you’re in the mood for a unique horror-thriller from that decade.

      **The Fan (1981)**

      This film features musical numbers, a repressed man obsessed with an older woman, and a strange third act. The Fan centers on Sally Ross (Lauren Bacall), an actress seeking a new direction in her career while being stalked by a young man named Douglas (Michael Biehn). While the film has its flaws, there are elements that some may find enjoyable. If you're in the mood for uncomfortable scenes along with campy musical moments, this perplexing early ’80s horror-thriller might pique your interest. Just manage your expectations, and you might find it entertaining; expect plenty of singing from Sally and absurd letters from Douglas.

      **Misery (1990)**

      Often considered one of the best adaptations of Stephen King’s work, Misery tells the story of novelist Paul Sheldon (James Caan), who suffers an accident and is rescued by the devoted yet disturbed fan Annie Wilkes (Kathy Bates). This movie serves as a top-notch illustration of obsession in horror and its terrifying potential in an isolated environment. The performances of both leads contribute to its acclaim. Rather than relying on a high body count, Misery leans heavily into psychological horror, culminating in a chaotic third act. Annie is the type of fan any author would dread, making audiences wish Paul had avoided his accident altogether.

      **Perfect Blue (1997)**

      Perfect Blue offers profound insights into the nature of obsession. The film follows a retired Japanese pop star pursuing an acting career, only to encounter an unhinged stalker. This visually stunning animated film presents striking imagery, and the scenes featuring the stalker will likely leave you looking over your shoulder. Avoid spoilers, as the film is not straightforward. Immerse yourself in it and prepare for unforgettable scenes and themes involving stalking and obsession. If you haven’t seen this beautiful film yet, don’t miss out.

      **P2 (2007)**

      Holidays shouldn't be spent escaping a maniac in a parking garage. P2 follows a woman who is kidnapped by a security guard and must fight to escape. Among early 2000s horror films, this one is relatively underrated. Wes Bentley delivers a chilling performance, and his character’s disturbingly unsettling nature is impactful, reflecting that individuals like him are not uncommon. If you’re in search of a suspenseful horror film with plenty of hide-and-seek moments, this might be an enjoyable choice. Its somewhat isolated setting adds to the intrigue, especially if you enjoy seeing women fight back against their obsessed captors.

      **Pet (2016)**

      Kidnapping a woman to make her live in a cage under the guise of doing what’s best for her is certainly not a sound decision. Pet tells the story of Seth (Dominic Monaghan), a pound worker who becomes fixated on a waitress named Holly (Ksenia Solo) and ultimately abducts her. The film offers numerous twists that differentiate it from the usual obsessive love storyline, which some viewers may appreciate. There are intense scenes that will linger in your mind long after watching. Ksenia Solo expertly portrays a complex character, while Dominic Monaghan embodies a desperate and obsessed man who loses grip on reality. In sum, this is a thriller-horror film with enough nail-biting sequences to keep you engaged.

      **Unsane (2018)**

      Vulnerable individuals being profoundly gaslit by those who should help them is a theme that extends beyond horror. Unsane features a woman named Sawyer (Claire Foy), whose efforts to escape her stalker lead her to an extended stay in a psychiatric facility, where she fears her stalker has followed her. The film conveys a found footage quality without actually being so, creating a voyeuristic atmosphere throughout that amplifies the justified paranoia as it unfolds.

      For those frustrated by the portrayal of women not being believed in horror