The Babadook (2014) – Movie Review
Synopsis:
"The Babadook" is a psychological horror film that plunges into the depths of grief and motherhood, directed by Jennifer Kent. The story revolves around Amelia (Essie Davis), a widow struggling to raise her troubled son, Samuel (Noah Wiseman), after the tragic death of her husband, Oskar. The film opens with a haunting prologue, sending us back to the fateful night of Oskar’s death in a car accident—an event that casts a long shadow over Amelia’s life.
Samuel, a precocious but deeply anxious boy, becomes fixated on the idea of monsters, expressing his fears through an insistent need for protection from a sinister presence he believes lurks in the shadows. His obsession culminates in the creation of elaborate defensive measures against this unseen terror. As tensions escalate between mother and son, Amelia discovers a mysterious pop-up storybook titled "Mister Babadook", which introduces a title character that encapsulates fear and sorrow. The Babadook is depicted as a monstrous figure who materialises from the shadows, offering a chilling metaphor for the manifestation of grief, anxiety, and suppressed emotions.
As the story unfolds, Amelia’s mental state deteriorates; the boundary between her reality and the otherworldly begins to blur. The Babadook becomes a relentless tormentor, preying upon her fears, ultimately leading to a series of harrowing events. She struggles to cope with Samuel’s escalating behaviour, which becomes increasingly disturbing as the influence of the Babadook grows. The film artfully explores themes of motherhood, the oft-overlooked effects of unresolved trauma, and the struggle to confront one’s demons. The climax of the film confronts the audience with a chilling yet poignant message about acceptance and the need to confront what we fear instead of allowing it to dominate us.
Cast:
- Essie Davis as Amelia Vannick
- Noah Wiseman as Samuel Vannick
- Daniel Henshall as Robbie
- Hayley McElhinney as Claire
- Barbara West as the elderly neighbour
- Tim Purcell as the social worker
- Kerry Anne Mullaney as the school teacher
- Samuel’s narration by Eileen O’Connell (voice only)
Review:
"The Babadook" is remarkable not only as a horror film but also as a deeply resonant exploration of psychological trauma. Jennifer Kent’s directorial debut blends elements of traditional horror with profound emotional exploration, making it far deeper than mere scares. Its initial reception spotlighted its uniqueness, positioning it among the best contemporary horror films. The film is meticulously crafted, employing an intentional slow burn to establish an atmosphere that grips the audience. The tension builds subtly, leaving viewers feeling as claustrophobic as Amelia does. The cinematography by Radek Ladczuk contributes greatly to this unsettling ambiance, capturing the stark contrast between the dreary interior of Amelia’s home, where much of the film takes place, and the harsh realities of her life outside.
The performances, particularly from Essie Davis, are nothing short of extraordinary. Davis embodies the dilemma of a mother consumed by grief and frustration. Her portrayal is raw and unfiltered, illustrating not only the external manifestations of fear but also the internal struggles of her character. Samuel, played by Noah Wiseman, is an equally compelling performance; his blend of innocence and agitation provides a haunting backdrop that elevates the narrative’s emotional stakes. The chemistry between Davis and Wiseman is palpable and naturally reflects the complex dynamics of their relationship—both tender and tumultuous.
One of the noteworthy aspects of "The Babadook" is its minimal reliance on jump scares, a common trope in contemporary horror cinema. Instead, it opts for psychological disturbia, with the Babadook itself becoming a manifestation of Amelia’s repressed grief and anxiety. The pop-up book serves not only as a plot device but also as a symbolic representation of the monstrous aspects of unprocessed emotions. The imagery surrounding the Babadook, from its distinct top hat to its dark, slinking figure, evokes the art of nightmares, designed to make audiences question what truly lies in the crevices of fear and loss.
The film’s sound design is equally integral to building tension. The menacing soundscape created by musician and sound designer, Daniel Hart, heightens the atmosphere of dread. The eerie noises and unsettling score contribute to the film’s oppressive aura, amplifying both the horror elements and the emotional struggles of the characters. This marriage of sound and visuals effectively demonstrates how sensory elements can invigorate a film’s thematic resonance.
In addition to its psychological layers, "The Babadook" expertly tackles societal perceptions of motherhood. Amelia’s struggles as a single parent, compounded by the stigma surrounding mental health and trauma, are sensitively portrayed. Kent shines a light on the taboos often associated with discussing grief and mental illness, prompting a conversation about the support systems—or lack thereof—available to individuals grappling with profound loss. The film makes an argument that rather than succumbing to fear, we must reconcile with our grief and pain, suggesting that these elements are as much a part of us as joy and love.
Conclusion:
"The Babadook" is a stunning achievement in psychological horror, an evocative tale that intertwines deeply entrenched themes of mental health and motherhood with traditional horror motifs. Its haunting narrative, combined with powerful performances and a deft directorial vision by Jennifer Kent, renders it a must-see for any cinema lover, particularly those who appreciate horror that grapples with more than just the superficial.
In a genre often saturated with formulaic plots and characters, "The Babadook" stands apart, encouraging viewers to reflect on their fears and the universal experience of loss. It invites audiences to step into the darkness, not as an enemy to be vanquished but as a reality to confront. In a perfect blend of horror and poignant storytelling, “The Babadook” is more than just a monster movie; it is a beautifully crafted narrative about finding light in the depths of despair.
Score: 9/10
