Focus Features acquires horror film *Anything But Ghosts* from Curry Barker & Cooper Tomlinson, starring Aaron Paul, following Barker's upcoming film *Obsess...
- April 25, 2026
AceShowbiz - Focus Features continues its collaboration with filmmaker Curry Barker, acquiring the rights to the horror feature Anything But Ghosts. This new project follows Barker’s upcoming movie Obsession, which he wrote and directed and is scheduled for release on May 15.
Curry Barker co-wrote and directed Anything But Ghosts alongside his creative partner Cooper Tomlinson, with both also starring in the film. While details about the plot remain under wraps, it has been confirmed that Emmy-winning actor Aaron Paul is among the cast, with Tomlinson taking the lead role.
The duo initially gained widespread attention through their comedy sketch YouTube channel That's a Bad Idea, which has drawn favorable comparisons to the popular Netflix series I Think You Should Leave by Tim Robinson. This background highlights their blend of comedic and creative talents that they bring to their film projects.
Beyond Anything But Ghosts, Curry Barker has made waves with his viral horror film Milk & Serial, which amassed over $800 in viral success. His rapid ascent in the film industry has positioned him as one of the most sought-after filmmakers, especially following Obsession being the top sale at last year’s Toronto Film Festival. Additionally, Barker has been tapped by A24 to write and direct a fresh take on The Texas Chainsaw Massacre.
Cooper Tomlinson also garners praise for his performance in Obsession and is set to appear in Taylor Sheridan’s series The Dutton Ranch, which premieres on May 15—the same day as Obsession. This simultaneous release highlights Tomlinson’s growing presence in both film and television.
The production of Anything But Ghosts marks a notable collaboration between horror industry veterans. Producers include Blumhouse-Atomic Monster’s Jason Blum and Spooky Pictures’ Roy Lee, working together for the first time. They produce alongside Spooky’s Steven Schneider and Divide/Conquer’s Adam Hendricks and Greg Gilreath.
Backing the film are Image Nation and That's a Bad Idea, with executive producers including Curry Barker, Cooper Tomlinson, and Ben Ross. This support underscores the confidence in the project’s creative team and potential impact.
Regarding representation, Aaron Paul is represented by UTA, Curry Barker by Underground, UTA, and Yorn Levine, and Cooper Tomlinson by Canopy Media Partners, Paradigm, and Yorn Levine. Their combined talents and industry backing signal a promising future for Anything But Ghosts under the Focus Features banner.