Inde Navarrette, a rising star in the world of acting, has recently gained attention for her compelling performance in the horror film *Obsession*. At just 25 years old, the actress reflects on her career journey, her love for the horror genre, and her hopes for the future in a candid interview with PEOPLE.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(jpeg)/Inde-Navarrette-1-051226-e9b5c677483343c4bbaf5a9b463027ad.jpg)
In *Obsession*, directed by Curry Barker, Navarrette takes on the character of Nikki, whose life spirals out of control following a fateful wish. The film is touted as Barker’s first major theatrical release and is positioned alongside highly anticipated projects, including a remake of the Texas Chain Saw Massacre by A24. Navarrette describes her experience while filming as both terrifying and exhilarating, stating, “I even scared myself while filming this supernatural thriller-body horror hybrid.”
Navarrette approaches the role of Nikki with a unique perspective, aiming to expand upon the “obsessive girlfriend” trope often seen in horror films. She notes, “There are actually many different ‘Nikkis’ in this film. My goal was to ensure that audiences could relate to her and spark conversations afterwards.” Her portrayal seeks to humanise a character often depicted in a one-dimensional manner, presenting her multifaceted personality that audiences can understand and empathise with.
Raised in Fresno, California, Navarrette’s passion for acting ignited at an early age. Participating in YMCA drama and dance classes as a child, she discovered a love for performance that compelled her to pursue acting seriously. She recalls being inspired by classic films, often introduced by her mother, which allowed her to connect emotionally with the stories being portrayed. “It just made me feel really good,” says Navarrette of her early experiences in theatre, which laid the foundation for her career.
As she prepares to embrace more roles in the horror genre, Navarrette admits that she is keen to explore the complexities this niche offers. “If horror will have me, I will stick in horror for a while,” she said with a smile. The genre allows her to portray a range of characters, and she appreciates the freedom it provides to explore varying emotions and expressions.
Navarrette explains that while she draws inspiration from her own experiences to resonate with her character, it is difficult to articulate the depths of certain feelings. “It’s about capturing the horrific thought process that comes with love and desire,” she says, highlighting her intention to present Nikki as relatable rather than merely a figure of horror.
In response to queries about her evolving career and the reactions to her performance, Navarrette shared her approach to feedback. Choosing to limit her exposure to social media comments for now, she prefers to digest feedback in person, allowing her to maintain a healthy distance from external pressures while remaining appreciative of the audience’s support.
Viewers have responded enthusiastically to her performance, with some suggesting Navarrette deserves a place among horror’s finest. When asked about the acclaim, she expressed her gratitude and pride, recalling the effort she invested in portraying Nikki. “To get something you’ve never had, you have to do something you’ve never done,” she reflects, emphasising her determination to take on challenging roles.
As the conversation turned to her influences, Navarrette cited Brittany Murphy as a significant inspiration, noting the unique blend of grit and charisma she brings to her roles. Additionally, the actress found motivation from various music genres, particularly the energy of Paramore, which she played during her commute to help shape her character’s mindset.
Beyond acting, Navarrette shared a glimpse into her personal interests, from her love of anime to her passion for painting. She enjoys people-watching at local dive bars and has expressed a keen interest in exploring New York as she navigates her burgeoning career. Seeking a balance between her creative pursuits and the demands of acting, she’s determined to carve out a path that remains authentic to herself.
*Obsession* is now screening in theatres, showcasing Navarrette’s talents alongside co-stars such as Michael Johnston and Andy Richter. As her career progresses, audiences can expect to see more from this compelling actress, whose performance in *Obsession* marks just the beginning of her journey in Hollywood.