Obsession — Panic Attack

Written by Curry Barker, this contemporary dramatic duologue from the film Obsession captures an emotionally volatile encounter between Nicky and Bear. Overwhelmed and visibly distraught, Nicky asks Bear for company in bed to stave off racing thoughts, which quickly blurs boundaries and initiates an unexpected, passionate kiss. However, the shared intimacy is abruptly severed when Nicky suddenly pulls away in panic, leaving Bear caught between confusion, vulnerability, and quiet heartbreak.

Nicky operates from a state of raw emotional disorientation, reaching outward for comfort while trapped inside a distressing psychological spiral. In contrast, Bear embodies an empathetic presence, trying to provide safe boundaries while secretly harboring a deeper yearning for connection. When Bear finally yields to the embrace, Nicky’s sudden terror and retraction dismantle the moment, highlighting Bear’s painful bewilderment and Nicky’s desperate scramble for self-control.

This intense four-minute piece gives actors an extraordinary platform to demonstrate rapid tonal shifts and sophisticated emotional regulation. It requires performers to manage delicate, whisper-close subtext before navigating a jarring physical and psychological rupture. Casting directors can immediately assess an actor's listening ability, boundary work, and capacity for sudden vulnerability without tilting into unearned melodrama.

Tailored for actors playing ages 25 to 35, this scene suits casting types categorized as Vulnerable, Intense, Dramatic, Everyman, or the Girl Next Door. Since the characters can be played by performers of any gender, it serves as a versatile selection for self-tapes, drama school auditions, and advanced scene study. It is especially beneficial for actors seeking to show depth in modern character-driven drama.

Anchor the early moments of the scene in genuine awkwardness, resisting the urge to make the physical closeness feel planned or easily romantic. For Nicky, ensure the panic attack feels like a sudden internal shock of cold reality rather than a performative outburst. For Bear, avoid jumping straight to outrage; let the stinging hurt of being pushed away register silently across the face first.