OBEX (2026)
Story overview
OBEX is a 2026 fantasy-adventure film with horror and sci-fi elements directed by Albert Birney. The story follows Conor Marsh, who lives in seclusion with his dog Sandy. When Conor starts playing a cutting-edge computer game called OBEX, Sandy disappears, blurring the boundaries between reality and the virtual world. Conor must navigate the bizarre, unsettling realm of OBEX to rescue his beloved pet, confronting eerie environments and psychological challenges along the way.
Parent Guide
OBEX is a fantasy-adventure film with strong horror and sci-fi influences, featuring surreal, suspenseful sequences. It's best for viewers aged 8 and up due to its psychological themes and eerie atmosphere. Parental guidance is advised to help younger audiences process the blurring of reality and virtual worlds.
Content breakdown
Contains mild peril: Conor faces non-physical threats in the game world, such as eerie environments and psychological tension. No graphic violence, but suspenseful scenes may unsettle sensitive viewers.
Features moderate scary elements: surreal, unsettling imagery typical of horror genres, psychological tension from blurred reality, and the emotional distress of a missing pet. May be intense for children under 8.
No offensive language noted; dialogue is family-friendly, focusing on adventure and emotional themes.
No sexual content or nudity; the film centers on adventure and fantasy elements.
No depiction of substance use; themes revolve around gaming and virtual reality.
Moderate emotional intensity: deals with themes of loss (missing pet), isolation, and psychological confusion. The blend of horror and adventure creates a tense atmosphere that may affect sensitive viewers.
Parent tips
OBEX blends fantasy adventure with psychological horror themes, making it suitable for older children and teens. Key considerations: the film explores blurred reality/virtual boundaries, which may confuse younger viewers; it includes suspenseful scenes and eerie imagery typical of horror genres; the emotional core involves a pet's disappearance, which could distress animal-loving kids. Recommended for ages 8+ with parental guidance, as younger children might find the surreal elements and tension frightening. The runtime is 91 minutes, manageable for most viewers.
Parent chat guide
Parent follow-up questions
- How did Conor feel when Sandy was missing?
- What was your favorite part of the movie?
- Would you want to play a game like OBEX?
- Why do you think the game OBEX seemed so real to Conor?
- How did Conor show courage in the movie?
- What lessons did Conor learn about friendship?
- What does OBEX suggest about the dangers of immersive technology?
- How did the film blend fantasy and horror elements?
- Do you think Conor's actions were realistic or exaggerated?
- Analyze the film's commentary on escapism through gaming.
- How does OBEX use psychological horror to explore fear?
- Discuss the ethical implications of advanced virtual reality as shown in the movie.
Where to watch
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Trailer
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