Curry Barker, the director of the film 'Obsession', found himself in a predicament when the Motion Picture Association (MPA) threatened to give the movie an NC-17 rating due to a particularly violent scene. This scene, featuring a character's head being violently smashed, was a crucial element of Barker's original vision. However, the MPA's guidelines and the potential consequences of an NC-17 rating led Barker to make some compromises.
Barker, who also wrote and edited the film, expressed his initial frustration and disappointment with the MPA's decision. He felt protective of his creative vision and the impact of the scene on the audience at the Toronto International Film Festival. But, as time passed, he made the necessary cuts and found a way to make peace with the changes.
In an exclusive interview, Barker revealed that the edited version of 'Obsession' still retains the essence of his original intent. He noted that the pacing improved, and the scene's effectiveness remained intact. This compromise allowed the film to be released without an NC-17 rating, ensuring a wider audience could experience it.
Despite the changes, Barker's passion for the project remains. He mentioned the possibility of creating an extended director's cut, including the full, unedited version of the head-smash scene and other additional material. This move would provide fans with a more comprehensive and raw experience of his original vision.
'Obsession' has been well-received, offering a unique and disturbing exploration of its premise. The film's creative fertility and the promise of a director's cut have left audiences eager for more. However, Barker wisely refrains from wishing too hard for an extended cut, as he understands the potential pitfalls of such a wish.
As 'Obsession' continues its theatrical run, fans can appreciate the film's current state while also anticipating the possibility of a more unfettered director's cut in the future. Barker's journey highlights the challenges filmmakers face in balancing creative vision and market demands, ultimately shaping the final product.
