RGV’s ‘Every woman has a Nikki’ remark triggers the Internet: "What did you smoke" questions netizen

Hollywood thriller Obsession continues to surprise the entertainment world with its phenomenal box office run. Made on a modest budget of around $750,000, the film has emerged as a global sensation, earning over $170 million worldwide and attracting packed audiences even in India. While viewers across the globe are discussing the film’s layered storytelling and performances, filmmaker Ram Gopal Varma found himself at the center of controversy after sharing his interpretation of the movie on social media.

Varma took to X and suggested that the film’s success lies in the fact that “every woman has a little bit of Nikki in her,” referring to the film’s female protagonist. He further claimed that men also see traces of Nikki in the women around them, which, according to him, explains why audiences are connecting so strongly with the story.

Social Media Users Strongly Disagree

The filmmaker’s comment quickly triggered criticism from movie lovers and social media users, many of whom felt his observation oversimplified both the character and the film’s themes. Several users questioned how such a broad statement could be made about women based on a fictional character.

One user sarcastically asked whether the same logic would mean that every man is similar to the film’s male lead. Another pointed out that Obsession is not solely about Nikki and argued that reducing the film’s popularity to a single character misses the larger narrative. Many others felt the remark unfairly generalized women and ignored the complexity of the story.

Some viewers also defended Nikki, arguing that the character should not simply be labelled as “obsessive” or “crazy.” According to them, the film explores deeper emotional struggles, loneliness, and attachment issues, making Nikki far more nuanced than the filmmaker’s interpretation suggested.

The Film Continues to Win Audiences Worldwide

Interestingly, the controversy arrived at a time when Obsession is enjoying unprecedented success. Directed by Curry Barker, the psychological horror drama has become one of the year’s most talked-about films despite lacking major stars, expensive visual effects, or lavish production values.

Varma himself praised the film’s filmmaking techniques in separate posts, applauding its editing style, tension-building methods, and unconventional visual approach. He highlighted how the film proves that compelling storytelling can still draw audiences to theatres without relying on huge budgets or star power.