‘Obsession’ Star Cooper Tomlinson Talks Popularity, Digital Release, and More

Junior Felix sat down with Obsession star Cooper Tomlinson to discuss the film’s popularity and its digital release. 

In the interview, Felix praised both the film and Tomlinson, stating that Obsession was one of his top two films of the year so far, calling to the fact that it has been a great year for horror so far, and this movie helps prove that notion. Not only was it unexpected, according to Felix, but the film was truly a shocking piece that left many viewers mesmerized from his own experience watching it.

When asked about what surprised him most about the explosion in popularity this film has had, Tomlinson stated that for him it was cool seeing people go to the theatre and watch this film again, and again, and again, something that he felt hasn’t happened in a long time for the cinema. 

This led into a segue in which Tomlinson was asked about what the experience was like going from short skits with director Curry Barker to something as big as Obsession. Tomlinson excitedly said that for him and Barker, they continued to treat it as though it was still a sketch, and plan to continue to do so in whatever future endeavors they may have. 

“That’s what makes magic happen. That’s how you make a movie like this for $750,000.”

He goes on to say that he hopes more people can come to understand that feeling of treating these larger budget films as sketches, even if the experience is nerve-wracking, stating, “You get right into it after the first take, and it’s like, this is what we’ve always done.” He encourages those who are chasing this dream to get out and put themselves on camera, sharing how important it is to prepare yourself for that moment when the first take happens.

When asked about the camaraderie between the cast of Obsession and how uniquely close the cast is with one another, Tomlinson shared how he definitely felt this “ride or die” bond with Curry Barker before, during, and after the film. He shares how they have known each other since day one of being in the industry and the appreciation he has for such a great partnership, teasing future projects and stating that “we’re going to be together forever.” 

Following up on the comment about future projects, Felix asked Tomlinson about his thoughts on possibly expanding the Obsession universe with Curry Barker’s tease of “Tales in the Crypt,” in which each episode would focus on a different wish that was made. Tomlinson eagerly stated that he would be glad to reappear in a series like that, continuing to say that he and Barker continuously kick around ideas on projects, with the opportunity being endless with such a series. 

Going back to the popularity that came with the film, Tomlinson was asked about how he felt with the discourse online over the character Bear, played by Michael Johnston, and whether or not he is the villain in this film. Immediately, Tomlinson argues that there was no discourse for him, believing Bear to be the villain of the story without a doubt, expanding this issue to the other characters, such as Ian (Cooper Tomlinson) and the debates that could be had for Nikki (Inde Navarrette) or Sarah (Megan Lawless). 

Sharing more on the digital and physical release of the film, Tomlinson announces the extended 19 minutes of film, never before seen, that can be viewed from the comfort of your home with this release. And when speaking of home, Felix asked what it was like being able to film the movie in Los Angeles, with Tomlinson sharing how it felt great and as though they were shooting in their backyard. Tomlinson continues to shout out the businesses, such as Little Tony’s, Roguelike Tavern, and Castle’s Music, for being “incredibly helpful to making this happen.”

Watch Obsession, available on digital platforms now and on 4K UHD combo pack, Blu-Ray and DVD July 14. 

For more on Horror, make sure to check back to That Hollywood Show.