Find out why The Babadook is hailed as one of the scariest horror films, an eerie tale of grief, trauma, and psychological terror.
Around 10 years ago, I believe I stumbled upon what I consider is one of the scariest horror movies ever made – The Babadook – while searching for a lesser-known but worthwhile horror film. I couldn’t quite remember where I watched the movie, but I recall being engrossed during its entirety, and at many points, I was holding my breath out of suspense. There were jump scare moments, although just enough so as not to distract the viewer too much.
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The Babadook movie plot
Set in the year 2018, in Adelaide, Australia, Amelia Vanek struggles with grief and single motherhood after losing her husband, Oskar, in a tragic car accident en route to the hospital for their son Samuel’s birth.
Now six years old, Sam exhibits troubling behavior and becomes obsessed with a sinister imaginary monster. When Amelia reads him a mysterious pop-up book titled Mister Babadook, their lives spiral into psychological horror.
The book introduces the Babadook, a top-hatted entity that torments its victims. Amelia is unnerved, while Sam insists the creature is real. Disturbing events escalate, such as glass shards in food, violent outbursts, and eerie visions. Amelia blames Sam, but he insists the Babadook is responsible. After destroying the book, it reappears with horrifying new pages depicting Amelia committing murder.
As Amelia’s mental state deteriorates, she becomes increasingly violent and paranoid. The Babadook’s presence intensifies, culminating in its possession of Amelia. Under its influence, she kills their dog and nearly murders Sam. In a desperate act of love, Sam helps her expel the entity, but warns, “You can’t get rid of the Babadook.”
Amelia confronts the monster, forcing it into the basement. In the aftermath, mother and son begin to heal. Amelia nurtures Sam’s creativity and celebrates his birthday, while secretly feeding the subdued Babadook worms in the basement—acknowledging its lingering presence but keeping it under control.
This chilling tale explores grief, trauma, and the monstrous manifestations of suppressed emotion. The Babadook is not just a horror story—it’s a metaphor for the darkness we carry and the strength it takes to face it.
Conclusion
Now, going back to my original question, is The Babadook one of the scariest horror movies ever made? I would say yes!
Would I recommend The Babadook? Definitely! I think this is a well-made horror movie. All throughout, the movie will have you thinking about what will happen next and ask questions if the horrific events unfolding are all psychological in nature.
In the end, I believe The Babadook is worth every horror movie lover’s time.
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