There is a surprisingly clever detail hidden in ‘Obsession’ that makes Nikki’s strange transformations feel less random. Freaky Nikki is constantly on the verge of breaking down and briefly reverts to the real Nikki throughout the film.
The first time, it may appear to be a minor malfunction in her supernatural powers. However, the film subtly makes one thing clear: mirrors are a trigger. It’s one of those things that becomes more apparent once you know to look for it. All of a sudden, Nikki’s weird behaviors begin to make sense.
Nikki Seems to Break Whenever She Sees Herself
The first big hint is in the opening of the film. After Bear makes his wish, Nikki initially behaves lovingly toward him. Then something suddenly changes when she sees herself reflected in a mirror. It might not seem to matter much on the initial viewing, but it does when you start to see the connection to what follows.
Related: ‘Obsession’: Why The Darker Original Ending Was Abandoned
Whenever Nikki’s Freaky persona begins to break down, a mirror is nearby or involved. The reflection appears to force her to confront her real identity, almost as if seeing herself disrupts whatever transformation has taken control of her. But the film could be providing us with a bigger hint from Nikki’s actions.
Her Weirdest Habits May Actually Protect Her
The idea that Nikki is hesitant to sleep on Bear’s bed makes more sense when considering the fact that mirrors are dangerous to her transformation. There is a mirror directly opposite the bed, potentially giving her a constant reflection. Even when she does come to the bed, she puts a flower pot in front of her face.
At first glance, it seems to be another bizarre quirk of the character. But if mirrors can trigger Nikki’s transformation back into herself, covering her reflection suddenly seems deliberate. Another clue is the bathroom. Nikki doesn’t use it at all, as there’s a mirror inside, giving her another opportunity to see herself.
That makes the theory even creepier. Perhaps Nikki is not battling Freaky Nikki randomly. She’s unconsciously trying to steer clear of anything that may remind her of who she really is.
Which brings us to the wildest implication: If someone were to put a mirror right in front of Nikki’s face, maybe Freaky Nikki would lose control. The movie may have been showing us the weakness of its supernatural transformation the entire time.
You might also want to read: Why ‘Obsession’ Director Wanted Nikki To Act Like A Jealous Girlfriend
