Socially awkward Bear (Michael Johnston) harbours an unrequited crush for childhood friend Nikki (Inde Navarrette). On a whim he buys a ‘One Wish Willow’ novelty toy and wishes for Nikki to love him “more than anything in the world”. His wish is granted, but Nikki’s affection rapidly becomes a terrifying, violent, and suffocating obsession. Curry Barker’s gleefully entertaining debut feature balances scares and laughs with aplomb, and demonstrates a savvy command of character and tension that marks him a director to watch.

Notes by David O’Mahony