Detailed Summary
The Tragic Backstory
Amelia Vanek (Essie Davis) is a widowed mother struggling to cope with the death of her husband, Oskar (Benjamin Winspear), who died in a car accident while driving her to the hospital to give birth to their son, Samuel (Noah Wiseman). This tragic event casts a long shadow over Amelia and Samuel’s lives.
Samuel’s Troubling Behavior
Samuel is a troubled and hyperactive child, obsessed with fighting imaginary monsters. His behavior becomes increasingly erratic and difficult for Amelia to manage, leading to social isolation and tension between them.
The Appearance of Mister Babadook
One night, Samuel finds a mysterious pop-up book on his shelf titled “Mister Babadook.” The storybook describes a sinister creature called the Babadook, who torments those who become aware of its existence. Samuel becomes convinced that the Babadook is real, and his fear intensifies.
The Babadook’s Manifestation
As Amelia reads the book, strange occurrences begin to happen in their home. She experiences disturbing visions and hears eerie noises, and Samuel’s behavior worsens. The Babadook appears to be an unstoppable force, and Amelia’s mental state deteriorates.
Descent into Madness
Amelia tries to destroy the book, but it keeps reappearing. She becomes increasingly paranoid and sleep-deprived, and the line between reality and hallucination blurs. The Babadook’s presence becomes more tangible, and Amelia begins to lash out violently.
Confronting the Babadook
In the film’s climax, Amelia faces the Babadook in a terrifying confrontation. She finally acknowledges her grief and rage over Oskar’s death, and in doing so, gains control over the Babadook. Instead of destroying it, she traps it in the basement, symbolizing her acceptance of her grief.
Movie Ending
The movie ends with Amelia and Samuel preparing for a new chapter in their lives. They celebrate Samuel’s birthday, a date previously avoided due to its association with Oskar’s death. Amelia feeds the subdued Babadook in the basement, indicating that while grief can be managed, it never fully goes away.
Are There Post-Credits Scenes?
No, “The Babadook” does not have any post-credits scenes.
Type of Movie
“The Babadook” is a psychological horror film that explores themes of grief, mental illness, and the bond between mother and child.
Cast
- Essie Davis as Amelia Vanek
- Noah Wiseman as Samuel Vanek
- Hayley McElhinney as Claire
- Daniel Henshall as Robbie
- Barbara West as Mrs. Roach
- Benjamin Winspear as Oskar Vanek
Film Music and Composer
The film’s eerie and unsettling score was composed by Jed Kurzel, which greatly enhances the film’s tense and haunting atmosphere.
Filming Locations
- Adelaide, South Australia: The film was primarily shot in and around Adelaide. The use of local settings helped create the film’s claustrophobic and eerie atmosphere, with much of the action taking place in Amelia and Samuel’s house.
Awards and Nominations
- AACTA Awards: Won Best Direction (Jennifer Kent), Best Lead Actress (Essie Davis), and Best Original Screenplay.
- New York Film Critics Circle: Won Best First Film (Jennifer Kent).
- Fright Meter Awards: Won Best Horror Film, Best Director, and Best Actress.
Behind the Scenes Insights
- The character of the Babadook was inspired by silent film era monsters and was achieved using practical effects and stop-motion animation.
- Jennifer Kent, the director, developed “The Babadook” from her short film “Monster” (2005).
- Essie Davis and Noah Wiseman spent extensive time together off-set to build a believable mother-son relationship.
Inspirations and References
- Source Material: Jennifer Kent expanded on her short film “Monster” to create “The Babadook.”
- Psychological Horror Influences: The film draws on classic psychological horror elements, emphasizing atmosphere and character over jump scares.
Alternate Endings and Deleted Scenes
There are no widely known alternate endings or significant deleted scenes for this film. The film’s ending was carefully crafted to balance horror with emotional resolution.
Book Adaptations and Differences
The film itself serves as an adaptation of Kent’s short film “Monster,” expanding on its themes and characters. There are no significant book adaptations of “The Babadook.”
Memorable Scenes and Quotes
Key Scenes
- Reading the Babadook Book: The first time Amelia reads the pop-up book, setting the eerie tone.
- Amelia’s Breakdown: Amelia’s violent outburst in the kitchen, symbolizing her loss of control.
- Final Confrontation: The intense climax where Amelia faces the Babadook and reclaims her power.
Iconic Quotes
- “If it’s in a word, or it’s in a look, you can’t get rid of the Babadook.” – Mister Babadook
- “You can bring me the boy.” – The Babadook
- “I’m not leaving you.” – Amelia Vanek
Easter Eggs and Hidden Details
- The pop-up book “Mister Babadook” contains subtle references to classic horror tropes and German Expressionism.
- Early 20th-century horror films, particularly those featuring shadowy, monstrous figures, inspired the Babadook’s appearance.
Trivia
- Jennifer Kent initially struggled to secure funding for the film and resorted to crowdfunding to complete it.
- The Babadook book used in the film was handmade and meticulously designed to add authenticity.
- The film portrays an allegory for depression and grief, with the Babadook symbolizing Amelia’s suppressed emotions.
Why Watch?
“The Babadook” offers a unique blend of psychological horror and emotional depth, providing a fresh take on the genre. It’s a must-watch for its compelling performances, particularly by Essie Davis, and its exploration of the darker aspects of the human psyche.
Director’s Other Movies
- Monster (2005) – Short Film
- The Nightingale (2018)
Recommended Films for Fans
- Hereditary (2018)
- The Witch (2015)
- The Others (2001)
- It Follows (2014)
- The Conjuring (2013)
