Obsession
dir. Brian De Palma · 1976
The pursuit of an idealized love can lead to destructive obsession and a disconnection from reality.
Feature
Identity Crisis
Mood
Tense / Dark
Look
lush, moody cinematography with chiaroscuro lighting
Structure
nonlinear narrative interspersed with flashbacks
Plot
A wealthy New Orleans businessman becomes obsessed with a young woman who resembles his late wife.
Why watch
In "Obsession," Brian De Palma crafts a harrowing exploration of grief and desire, where the boundaries of love and madness blur within a haunting Southern Gothic landscape. This psychological thriller captivates with its lush visuals and intense emotional undercurrents, making it a must-see for fans of complex, character-driven narratives.
Cultural context
1970s American cinemaexploration of griefSouthern Gothic traditionsinfluence of Hitchcock