From Real-Life Heartbreak to Horror: How Michael Johnston Found His Obsession Character
Hollywood First Look sits down with Michael Johnston to explore his horror film Obsession, directed by Curry Barker, where a hopeless romantic’s desperate wish for love spirals into a terrifying nightmare.
Michael reveals how experiencing a breakup shortly before filming helped him connect with Bear’s insecurities and fear of rejection. He explains why his character struggles to take responsibility for his actions and how understanding Bear’s emotional limitations allowed him to approach the role without judgment. Johnston also reflects on Curry Barker’s distinctive directing style, particularly his extended takes, which gave the actors room to explore emotionally demanding scenes. He shares how Hereditary influenced the production and why the film’s psychological depth makes its scares even more unsettling.
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Michael Johnston (Bear)
Obsession is now streaming exclusively on Peacock.
Correspondent/Producer: Kiyra Lynn
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Editor: Mickey Martinez
