The Babadook (2014) Review in 2025
A psychological horror film about a mother and son dealing with grief and mental health, with a mysterious presence invading their lives.
Family-Friendly Rating
Is this movie suitable for family viewing?
No, due to its intense and disturbing content, this movie is not suitable for young children or families.
CineReview Recommendation
This movie is a must-watch for fans of psychological horror and those who enjoy slow-burning, atmospheric thrillers. However, due to its intense content, it's not suitable for young children or families.
Spoiler Alert!
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The Babadook is a psychological horror film about a mother, Amelia, who is struggling to cope with the loss of her husband in a car accident. Her son, Samuel, is also dealing with the trauma of the event, and the two are trying to move on with their lives. However, a mysterious presence, known as the Babadook, starts to invade their home, and Amelia's mental state begins to deteriorate. As the Babadook's presence grows stronger, Amelia's grip on reality starts to slip, and she becomes convinced that the Babadook is a manifestation of her own guilt and grief.
Review Details
story9.50/10
The story is well-written and explores themes of grief, mental health, and the complexities of mother-son relationships. The plot is engaging and unpredictable, with a slow-burning tension that builds up to a shocking climax.
acting9.50/10
The acting is superb, with Essie Davis delivering a standout performance as Amelia. Noah Wiseman is also impressive as Samuel, bringing a sense of vulnerability and fear to the role.
characters9.00/10
The characters are well-developed and complex, with Amelia being a particularly compelling and relatable protagonist. The chemistry between Amelia and Samuel is authentic and heart-wrenching, making their relationship feel genuine and realistic.
direction9.50/10
The direction is superb, with Jennifer Kent bringing a unique and unsettling visual style to the film. The pacing is well-balanced, with a mix of quiet moments and intense scares that keep the viewer on edge.
cinematography9.00/10
The cinematography is dark and moody, with a focus on shadows and lighting that creates a sense of unease and foreboding. The use of color is also noteworthy, with a muted palette that adds to the overall sense of melancholy and despair.
Pros and Cons
Pros
The Babadook is a masterclass in psychological horror, with a well-written story, complex characters, and superb direction. The film's use of atmosphere and tension is unparalleled, making it a truly unsettling and memorable experience.
Cons
The pacing can be slow for some viewers, and the film's themes of grief and mental health may be triggering for others.
Notable Quotes
"'Sometimes, the things that scare us most are the things that are inside us.'"
"'The Babadook is a monster, but it's also a manifestation of our own fears and anxieties.'"
