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'Obsession' fever, ‘The Republic of Wasia,’ and why tan lines are hot again | Engagement Party

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June 12, 2026

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"Obsession” and “Backrooms” are breaking box office records. Audie and Ari dissect both films' YouTube origins, the secrets of their success, and why the whole horror genre is killing it right now. Then, friend of the show Elise Hu helps break down how the “Republic of Wasia” became a meme and a moment, and why not everyone who's mixed-Asian feels included. Plus: Why are tan lines in again?

About the show: Welcome to Audie Cornish and Ari Shapiro’s Engagement Party, where the hot takes are the smart takes. ​After years of working side by side, Audie and Ari have made it official with their pop culture video podcast. Party hopping between what you're watching, reading and scrolling, these longtime friends unpack what matters in our endless feeds.

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#Obsession #Backrooms #popculture

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Elise HuPlus WhyAudie CornishAri Shapiros Engagement PartyIP AnTell What'sTouch Grass TherapeuticObsession Backrooms

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'Obsession' fever, ‘The Republic of Wasia,’ and why tan lines are hot again | Engagement Party · CNN · Sentinel