“Obsess” as the title suggests, the movie boldly attempts to define obsession, the overwhelming desire towards a person or a thing woven in a nerve-wracking storyline, living up to the expectations. Produced by Jagdish Singh and Peter Wilson, the psychological thriller centers on two characters, following a road-rage incident that turns into a cat-and-mouse chase between a deadly, psychologically unstable man and a strong, independent woman.
Plot
The movie, set in North India, opens on a high note with Peter, played by Peter Wilson, committing a crime by killing someone inside a lonely house. Mentally disturbed and emotionally charged, Peter believes the crimes he is committing are not wrong. He comes out, sitting in his truck, takes his medicines, drinks alcohol, and falls to himself. Meanwhile, he receives a message from his boss, who fires him for his drinking and driving habits.
In anguish, Peter drives to his boss’s house and commits another crime, killing his boss. Dealing with his unstable brain, Peter confesses his crimes in Church and to save himself, he kills the father too. Later, he drives again, and this time he bumps into Sarah, played by Eisha Singh.
Sarah, a strong and independent woman who is facing marital issues with her husband, is not ready to give her son to him. She drives her son to her mother’s house, but because of construction, Sarah stops her car. Peter, being behind her, honks a lot, frustrating Sarah, who then screams at Peter. This one moment sets the stage for whatever happens ahead. What happens next is best experienced by watching in theatres.
What works in the film’s favor?
Actor Peter Wilson is also the film’s director. All the credit goes to the director for the engaging watch. The key point is that the film revolves around just two characters, and that’s the beauty: how the filmmaker keeps the viewers invested with just two characters. Bow down! When there is no glamour and drama, it’s the craft that takes center stage, and “Obsess” is a perfect example.
The biggest strength of the film is its continuous development, which keeps the tension alive throughout and keeps the audience locked in. Peter succeeds in portraying the film as a thriller with hook moments around every corner. What’s commendable is that there are very few dialogues in the film, as it relies heavily on silence, emotions, and tension to make it feel real. Though the film impresses, I feel it could have been a bit better.
Performances
Peter Wilson is undoubtedly the highlight with his standout performance. His character of a mentally unstable Peter connects. From his expression, voice weight, to body language and eye contact—every detail assays the character showcasing his pain, psychological mindset, frustration, and dangerous instability. With his performance, he commands attention, creating terror and raising the heartbeats.
On the other hand, Eisha Singh as Sarah brings a fiery charm to a strong, independent woman. Making her big-screen debut, the actress gives her best. Her character brings emotional depth with her desperate pursuit to save her child.
Overall, Obsess is different from the usual thriller. The storyline highlights how just one moment of rage can turn life upside down. The film scores well throughout, with the tension and emotions it brings woven into a nerve-wracking storyline.
IWMBuzz rates Obsess 3 out of 5 stars!
