The Babadook proves to be a horror film that lends itself to many different understandings. Watching it, I felt the story was really about the challenges faced by single mothers, and that the true terror comes from the possibility of domestic abuse—abuse stemming from someone inherently good being overwhelmed by hardship. I should caution viewers; this isn’t a movie for all tastes. If you're uncomfortable wit…

The Babadook is an effectively creepy horror movie. I would have appreciated further exploration of the monster and its nature, although the film provides enough information and does a good job establishing the unsettling feeling it creates. The sound editing was particularly noteworthy; it's skillfully done throughout. Essie Davis delivers a terrific performance as Amelia, portraying her character’s emotions …

This is easily the scariest film released so far this year. However, that isn’t exactly high praise. Final rating:★★★ - It was enjoyable, and I would suggest checking it out.

Jennifer Kent wrote and directed The Babadook, with Essie Davis, Noah Wiseman, Daniel Henshall, and Hayley McElhinney in the cast. Jed Kurzel composed the music, and Radek Ladczuk was the cinematographer. The story centers on Amelia, a single mother struggling to cope with her husband's past death while also trying to manage her young son Samuel’s fear of a monster inhabiting their home. Initially dismissing his f…