'Obsession' star Megan Lawless discusses her character Sarah's impactful scene and its effect on audiences, as well as the dynamics of the film's storyline.
Sarah's Enduring Impact
In the film 'Obsession', directed by Curry Barker, a wish gone wrong leads to a series of tragic events, including the death of Megan Lawless' character Sarah. Michael Johnston's Bear uses a One Wish Willow to make Nikki, played by Inde Navarrette, love him more than anyone else, leading to unforeseen consequences. Sarah's death scene, initially more graphic at its Toronto International Film Festival premiere, left a lasting impression, despite some edits for the theatrical release. Lawless reflects on her character's demise, saying, "You will not forget my death scene, and I was glad it was so momentous in the storyline."
On-Set Atmosphere and Character Dynamics
Filming Sarah's death was one of the most memorable days on set for Lawless. She describes the atmosphere as both funny and challenging, with Inde Navarrette wearing a protective wig for safety during a critical scene. "It was just a little ridiculous," Lawless recalls. Despite the serious nature of the scene, the cast found humor in the situation, especially with the use of a doll version of Sarah for certain shots. Lawless notes how these elements contributed to an iconic moment in the film. The party scene, another highlight, was both comedic and absurd, drawing genuine reactions from the cast.
Exploring Character Relationships
Lawless also touches on the potential relationship between Sarah and Bear. She agrees with Johnston that Sarah and Bear would have been a perfect match. "Bear obviously needs someone that would reciprocate his feelings," she states. The film explores themes of unrequited love and missed opportunities, with Lawless suggesting that a conversation between Sarah and Bear earlier in the film could have changed the course of events.
Audience Reactions and Film Themes
The reaction to Sarah's death at TIFF surprised Lawless, as the audience cheered during the brutal scene. "I did not expect everyone to be cheering," she admits. The film's horror elements resonate with fans, who appreciate the intensity of such scenes. Lawless reflects on the broader themes of obsession and identity, particularly in how Nikki's character begins to mimic Sarah by the film's end. "It's crazy because you see my dead body there naked and it’s because Nikki’s wearing my clothes," she explains, highlighting the unhealthy obsession at the film's core.
Overall, 'Obsession' delves into the complexities of love and desire, with Sarah's character playing a crucial role in the unfolding drama. As Lawless puts it, Sarah's story arc is both tragic and iconic, cementing her place in the film's narrative.
Source: https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-features/obsession-megan-lawless-sarahs-big-scene-interview-1236603882/
