'Shoot it and put it on YouTube': Priyanka Chopra says Obsession proves that ideas are the real currency
Hollywood film Obsession, which has emerged as an unlikely box office sensation in India, has earned praise from actor Priyanka Chopra Jonas, who recently spoke about the changing landscape of the entertainment industry.
Speaking at the Cannes Lions conference on Wednesday, Priyanka said the present era offers unprecedented opportunities for creators and artists, describing ideas as the "real currency" in entertainment.
'I wanted to support filmmakers with great ideas'
Priyanka said the vision behind launching her production house was to create opportunities for talented filmmakers who struggled to find a platform.
"I think this is a wonderful time for creative people—for creators, artists, and anyone who has an idea and wants to tell a story.
"When I started my production house, that was the whole reason behind it. I wanted to support new filmmakers, or filmmakers with great ideas who didn't have the ability to open doors on their own, hoping that I could help create those opportunities."
'Just put it on YouTube'
The actor said the internet has democratised storytelling, allowing anyone with a compelling idea to reach audiences across the world.
Citing the success of Obsession, Priyanka said: "Today, I feel that if you have an idea, just shoot it, put it on YouTube, and it could become something like Obsession, which has just come out. It's an incredible time to be an entertainer and to be in the entertainment business because ideas are your real currency."
Obsession becomes a surprise hit in India
American supernatural horror film Obsession has emerged as an unexpected box office phenomenon in India, drawing audiences to theatres in large numbers despite its modest budget.
The unsettling relationship between Nikki and Bear, portrayed by Inde Navarrette and Michael Johnston, has struck a chord with moviegoers.
Beyond its box office success, the film has sparked a flood of memes and online discussions, reflecting its growing popularity among Indian audiences.
Director stunned by India's response
Director Curry Barker admitted he never expected Obsession to become such a massive success in India.
Speaking to Variety India, Barker said: "I definitely did not expect Obsession to be a big hit in India. I didn't expect it to be a big hit anywhere, really. You hope and dream that your movie is successful and that it resonates with people.
"But I can't believe what it's doing. I mean, we made this movie for nothing. I just can't believe that it's getting the recognition that it's getting."
Inde Navarrette as Nikki in Obsession. Photo: Screen-grab/trailer video
A surprise box office juggernaut
Obsession has grossed more than Rs. 90 crore at the Indian box office, making it the highest-grossing Hollywood film in India this year.
After a modest opening, the film witnessed exceptional word-of-mouth and sustained momentum, eventually becoming one of the biggest surprise box office success stories of 2026.
Made on a modest budget, Obsession has earned widespread acclaim for its tense atmosphere, unsettling storytelling and compelling performances.
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