Is Beyonce’s Acting in Obsessed Really That Bad?

As the tension mounts and the stakes become all too real, the 2009 psychological thriller Obsessed dives into a world where devotion morphs into desperation. Featuring a captivating performance by Beyoncé alongside the riveting Idris Elba, this film invites viewers into a harrowing narrative set against the backdrop of fame, ambition, and madness.

Directed by Steve Shill and penned by David Loughery, Obsessed weaves a tale of intrigue, jealousy, and betrayal. With a supporting cast that includes Ali Larter, Bruce McGill, Jerry O’Connell, and Christine Lahti, the film centers on Derek Charles (Idris Elba), a man enjoying his promotion and a blissful marriage with his wife, Sharon (Beyoncé). However, the arrival of Lisa, a temp at Derek’s office, shatters this peace. As Lisa begins to stalk Derek, the suspense escalates, setting the stage for a dramatic showdown.

Despite its star-studded cast, Obsessed didn’t quite capture the hearts of critics, garnering a dismal 19% on Rotten Tomatoes. One critic summarized it as “a fist-chewing embarrassment that has no right to a theatrical release,” while another bluntly argued that it made Fatal Attraction seem like a masterpiece. However, the film did manage to clinch the MTV Movie Award for Best Fight in 2010, showcasing that sometimes, even amidst critique, there’s room for recognition.

In box office terms, Obsessed fared surprisingly well, grossing $73.8 million globally on a $20 million budget. This financial success is a testament to the appeal of its leads, even if their performances received mixed reviews. One viewer noted, “Idris Elba will always be great in every role, but not even he can save this brainless rip-off of Fatal Attraction.” Critics didn’t hold back, with declarations like “it just did everything wrong” and suggestions for deeper character exploration falling flat throughout the narrative.

Reflecting on his time working with Beyoncé, Idris Elba mentioned in a 2009 interview with Oprah that she’s a “true professional” and praised their on-screen chemistry. “Honestly, within 20 minutes of meeting each other we were playing man and wife,” Elba shared. This spark, he believed, contributed significantly to their performances despite the overarching flaws of the film.

While the chemistry between the two stars glimmered, many viewers still felt disappointed, criticizing the writing and depth of characters, especially Lisa’s backstory. For audiences yearning for crisp storytelling and emotional depth, Obsessed may disappoint—but for those who revel in over-the-top thrillers, it offers guilty pleasures amid the chaos.

Obsessed is available for rent on Amazon Prime Video at a cost of £3.49.