“The Babadook” is an exercise in restraint. We live in a shock-value society that delivers thrills and emotions through grotesque imagery: the more extreme, the better. But “The Babadook” is a breath of fresh air. We don’t need to see a literal version of what is happening to be afraid of it and it helps to maintain the mystery of whether this monster actually exists. The special effects are intentionally simplistic, shunning CGI to foster the “real” sensation that everything we see was also seen by the actors during filming. The story is fresh and unique but utilizes classic horror elements to create a sense that it is based on a generations-old legend. It is a series of well-executed horror thrills that do not need extra frills to accent them. The details lie in the progression, like introducing the creepy book and then adding several terrifying pages, or placing the Babadook into the background of a camera shot where we least expect him. The actual physical manifestation isn’t that scary. It is everything that he represents, both literally and metaphorically. In a literal sense, he is an unseen presence that gains power over us the more that we think about him. Metaphorically, he is grief, pain, and loss. The strong emotional impact of the film comes from the performances of Essie Davis and Noah Wiseman. You will forget that Davis is acting because her emotions are so raw that she embodies every ounce of her character’s pain. Meanwhile, Wiseman gives a performance far beyond the ability of most 6-year-olds. The strained relationship between this grieving mother and her out-of-control, emotionally distraught son brings out the worst fears of every parent before we even hear a mention of Mr. Babadook. The film creates a sense of helplessness toward both the monster and the lack of a support system that keeps us wondering what we would do in their situation. It seems impossible to find a solution, thus heightening our emotions even more when their situation turns dangerous. The story’s resolution is awesome and is the one aspect of the film that breaks the mold of classic horror movies. You think that it can only end one of two ways but there is an amazing third option that you’d never expect. This underrated film thrills over and over again. “The Babadook” isn’t the scariest movie that you’ll ever see but it manipulates your emotions in a way that will stick with you for the rest of your life.
[Pictured: The storybook is one of the most clever (and horrifying) mediums ever used to introduce a villainous entity]
