IFC Films | Release Date: November 28, 2014
8.4
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Universal acclaim based on 1223 Ratings
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1,029
Mixed:
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Negative:
81
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8
PanchogulApr 18, 2020
The Babadook (2014)

Sinopsis: Una viuda con problemas descubre que su hijo está diciendo la verdad acerca de un monstruo que entró a su casa a través de las páginas de un libro infantil. Opinión: Si yo hubiese sido la madre de ese niño,
The Babadook (2014)

Sinopsis:

Una viuda con problemas descubre que su hijo está diciendo la verdad acerca de un monstruo que entró a su casa a través de las páginas de un libro infantil.

Opinión:

Si yo hubiese sido la madre de ese niño, no existiría esta película porque a la primera que me saque de quicio lo hubiese tirado a un compactador de basura.

En general me pareció una buena película, pero realmente es demasiado exasperante.

Valoración:

3.5 ⭐ de 5 ⭐
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1 of 7 users found this helpful16
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8
FallenStarJul 25, 2019
A very intriguing horror movie with quite a few horror elements that get the viewer involved in its plot.

The story and its characters are quite a spectacle to watch as they struggle due to their situation. While this isn't necessarily
A very intriguing horror movie with quite a few horror elements that get the viewer involved in its plot.

The story and its characters are quite a spectacle to watch as they struggle due to their situation. While this isn't necessarily something new in a story like this, the acting and the atmosphere definitely helps sell the movie.

The horror aspect relies heavily on atmosphere, sound and imagination which does help a lot for those who are paying attention. The monster itself is terrifying as most of the events happen within the viewer's head as well as the character's.

I highly recommend this movie as its an interesting take on the horror genre and it does bring its own guns to the table with its gorgeous acting, really well-done setting, an intriguing and horrifying monster that keeps the suspense up along with a good story.
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0 of 1 users found this helpful01
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8
GMReviewsSep 20, 2016
The Babadook is that rare horror film that ditches the cheapness of jumpscares in favour of true old school horror, the kind of horror that stays in your mind for weeks on end and makes you stare petrified into the dark at night. However,The Babadook is that rare horror film that ditches the cheapness of jumpscares in favour of true old school horror, the kind of horror that stays in your mind for weeks on end and makes you stare petrified into the dark at night. However, this film doesn't succeed just as what is described of it, this film is in fact a representation of grief and depression, and the kind of form it can take. This film gets an 8/10 - 85% Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
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8
louist91Dec 9, 2017
For sure "The Babadook" is one of the best horror movies i've ever watched, the way they work with the camera is really interessing, involve the viewer during the whole movie for who's watching, the kid is a great actor, the woman whoFor sure "The Babadook" is one of the best horror movies i've ever watched, the way they work with the camera is really interessing, involve the viewer during the whole movie for who's watching, the kid is a great actor, the woman who interpreted the mom is even better, she did a amazing job, I could feel every single thing that the character wanted to transmite.
Great movie.
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1 of 1 users found this helpful10
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8
MacsMusicJan 1, 2018
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Visually, this movie is crazy, amazing, and very creepy. It uses shadows, mirrors, and even stop motion to constantly keep the viewer on their toes. The stress and anticipation of scares makes this movie difficult to watch without constantly flinching and bracing yourself for impact. The ending is easily the worst part of the movie, being really strange and unsatisfying. Besides the ending, a really legit horror movie. Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
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8
luke100Jan 9, 2018
Some legitimately creepy and scary scenes, some interesting story directions and some insanely fun character dynamics made this movie consistently entertaining, despite its fairly harsh tone. The writing is incredibly smart, and the wholeSome legitimately creepy and scary scenes, some interesting story directions and some insanely fun character dynamics made this movie consistently entertaining, despite its fairly harsh tone. The writing is incredibly smart, and the whole experience can be fairly chilling. But for a horror movie, I definitely wish it was scarier. Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
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8
amheretojudgeOct 29, 2019
A perfect blend of sound effects and editing zapping you with an enormous "boo".

The Babadook Jennifer Kent's debut as a writer-director is a monstrous call for attention. It is surprisingly one of those few horror flicks that I have
A perfect blend of sound effects and editing zapping you with an enormous "boo".

The Babadook

Jennifer Kent's debut as a writer-director is a monstrous call for attention. It is surprisingly one of those few horror flicks that I have encountered that fully uses every aspect of filmmaking in one direction. It channels everything to one simple thing. And it is not a scream that she wants from you, nor an awe gasping moment and definitely not a cheap elaborative sketch spread across the script for an insensitive commercial parlour trick. What she is interested in throwing out, is the character driven plot. All those scenes tied together just gives you a very strong case on what and how theses characters work. And they work fine. More than fine. They are extremely diligent on what they look like.

How they are received by the others. In fact, every character is interested in doing so. Even the demons come with an introduction, a warning and are interested in following those set rules by them. They want to be taken seriously. Like they hold importance. A value that they could never reach. But would like to possess. And that is the crux of the supernatural element in the film. The entity is something that is not considered real.

The psychological system feeds on fear and grows on your weakness or at least that's what we are told. And maybe that's why among these many set of characters, the kid, the child stands out different. His inexpressive behaviour, nature without any pattern doesn't make sense and it also does. This normalized humane behaviour that blends in at the back of our mind is what's alienated throughout the film. The Babadook then truly transforms into a monstrous lie. The horror title is deserved and the payoff is the oddest emotion that we carry and that is of course that we are attached to the idea.
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1 of 1 users found this helpful10
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8
K4tanaJul 4, 2020
THIS IS NOT YOUR TYPICAL MONSTER MOVIE. But dont let that pull you away from it the movie is really good just have an open mind wen you see it since its more a deep analises and deconstruction of some one emotional state and how it effectsTHIS IS NOT YOUR TYPICAL MONSTER MOVIE. But dont let that pull you away from it the movie is really good just have an open mind wen you see it since its more a deep analises and deconstruction of some one emotional state and how it effects their life then a jump scare fest. Whit that said there still are some good jump scares in this, but again its not about the scares or the monster... Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
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8
IAmaMovieGeekApr 23, 2020
One of the best modern horror films to this day. It's actually pretty terrifying, and the camerawork is fantastic. The mom actor was phenomenal in this movie. Please check this out if you want to see a modern horror masterpiece. 8/10
0 of 18 users found this helpful018
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8
HellHoleHorrorNov 22, 2022
I thought this film was a supernatural horror about a monster that only children could see. This film is very different. No spoilers but your expectation may change if you keep reading. This is a film about a single parent family strugglingI thought this film was a supernatural horror about a monster that only children could see. This film is very different. No spoilers but your expectation may change if you keep reading. This is a film about a single parent family struggling to get over the death of the father. This manifests in different ways for the son and mother. The psychology of this becomes quite harrowing and deeply sad. I like the non-stereotypical cinematography and great sound design. Acting is excellent throughout, as is the direction. The story is very engaging and the pacing solid. I didn't like the production design all the time as sometimes the house didn’t look like anyone lived there, I found that aspect a little unbelievable. The Babadook book is excellent, so much so I wanted to buy one until I saw how much they are. Overall it is an excellent film well worth watching but don’t expect a monster movie unless you’re expecting a monster of the mind. Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
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8
Computey18Mar 2, 2023
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Annoying Mom, Scary Monster, British, Children Book, Seems like a good movie to watch at night. Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
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8
BigManReviewerJun 7, 2023
f*****g terrifying without resorting to gore, keeps you on the edge of your seat. .
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
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7
markymarkNov 30, 2014
The Babadook is a well-acted, entertaining and quite affecting film. But it is not scary at all. And the creature itself is ineffectual to the point of being funny - completely killing any sense of tension the movie builds. Worth seeing, butThe Babadook is a well-acted, entertaining and quite affecting film. But it is not scary at all. And the creature itself is ineffectual to the point of being funny - completely killing any sense of tension the movie builds. Worth seeing, but not if you're hoping to be terrified. Expand
0 of 3 users found this helpful03
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7
Kris_dDec 25, 2014
A very well made movie. Not very scary, but creepy indeed and will give you chills down your spine. The actress who plays the mother is excellent and for a child actor, the boy does a pretty good job too. The film gives enough clues to whatA very well made movie. Not very scary, but creepy indeed and will give you chills down your spine. The actress who plays the mother is excellent and for a child actor, the boy does a pretty good job too. The film gives enough clues to what it actually is about, yet despite knowing what it is about, you still wonder if it's real or not. Why i wouldn't rate the film extremely high, i do get why the critics praise it. It's very well written and more intelligent than it appears to be. Those who just wanted to see a horror movie to get scared will think it's overrated, those who 'get it' and think about the metaphors, will appreciate it a lot more. Expand
2 of 5 users found this helpful23
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7
drlowdonAug 7, 2017
The Babadook has a few pacing issues but by forgoing the clichéd jump scares in favour of psychological horror it is more interesting than many recent Hollywood efforts in the genre.
0 of 7 users found this helpful07
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7
beingryanjudeJan 4, 2015
The Babadook will haunt you long after the film concludes its brief 90 minutes. What's even more incredible: the level of skill in filmmaking that will resonate with you. There are hints of We Need to Talk About Kevin - although, that onlyThe Babadook will haunt you long after the film concludes its brief 90 minutes. What's even more incredible: the level of skill in filmmaking that will resonate with you. There are hints of We Need to Talk About Kevin - although, that only makes the film stronger, deeper. Essie Davis is a triumph! Expand
1 of 3 users found this helpful12
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7
BradySmithJan 5, 2016
This is a good horror movie, one of the few, but it still only shows a small glimpse of the greatness it could have achieved. The performances, sure handed direction, character development, and sense of tension are all well above the averageThis is a good horror movie, one of the few, but it still only shows a small glimpse of the greatness it could have achieved. The performances, sure handed direction, character development, and sense of tension are all well above the average scarefest. It actually has an idea of what is truly frightening, slowly building menace with very few jump scares, strange noises, and unusual things seen out of the corner of our eye. But the last act is fatally flawed, giving in to clichés such as people being flung around a house by an invisible monster and loud screechy music slathered on top of annoying yelling. This greatly diminishes what was for most of its running time a surprisingly creepy movie. The ending also makes very little sense no matter how you look at it. Still, it's definitely worth a look if you're searching for a few chills. "ba ba dook dook dook!" Expand
0 of 4 users found this helpful04
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7
manofthemoonJan 11, 2015
First rate performances lift what could have been an average spook story into levels of strong drama. Not the scariest film ever made, but uncomfortable and rewarding. Well worth a view.
1 of 3 users found this helpful12
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7
ItsMuchMoreFeb 8, 2015
Ba Ba-Ba Dook! Dook! Dook! That sound will stay with your far after the movie has finished. If you are a horror fan looking for something new, look no further than The Babadook. Just be prepared to have

t’s received very good reviews
Ba Ba-Ba Dook! Dook! Dook! That sound will stay with your far after the movie has finished. If you are a horror fan looking for something new, look no further than The Babadook. Just be prepared to have

t’s received very good reviews critically, if you enjoyed movies like The Conjuring/ Nightmare on Elm Street or Rosemary’s Baby then you will most definitely like this. It’s a Australian movie and to be honest with you I’ve not watched many Australian movies in the past but the ones I have watched have always been very good. It’s not your typical horror movie in the sense that it draws upon more the psychological element of horror then your typical ghost scenes, it’s a very creepy movie lol.

It plays on your imagination and honestly there are some truly frightening and disturbing scenes in this movie, at times it can be uncomfortable. The atmosphere is very dark and there’s always an uneasy feeling throughout the movie. The performances are memorable, the plot and pacing are finely-tuned, and the eerie sound effects do justice to this marvelously shot, high-quality movie. A rare and fine experience.

“A single mother, plagued by the violent death of her husband, battles with her son’s fear of a monster lurking in the house, but soon discovers a sinister presence all around her.”
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1 of 5 users found this helpful14
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7
ozymandias79Nov 28, 2014
An interesting horror movie. Much more psychological than anticipated but a little disappointing they didn't go down that path more. It's a horror movie for the ladies, written and directed by a woman, it explores a mother hurting and losingAn interesting horror movie. Much more psychological than anticipated but a little disappointing they didn't go down that path more. It's a horror movie for the ladies, written and directed by a woman, it explores a mother hurting and losing her child. The kid is brilliant, annoying as hell, but that's the character. On the negative side, the public domain sound effects are cheap and all the adults are caked in makeup. It will probably get a Hollywood remake which aren't always bad. Altogether, certainly worth watching, especially for an Australian horror movie. Expand
5 of 12 users found this helpful57
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7
tethysdustFeb 14, 2017
This horror film is frightening, but also incredibly sad. The actors for the mother and child were pretty excellent. It had a deeper emotional resonance with the horror elements than most films in the genre.
0 of 6 users found this helpful06
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7
GhaJul 2, 2016
This was not what i was expecting at all. Very diferently filmed to a standard horror movie, very bleak and depressing. Wouldn't want to watch again but very well made.
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
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7
andygiantApr 17, 2017
This film has a very peculiar, but impressive approach to a horror theme plot. The acting is superior and you could empathize with every character as there is a giant emotional roller coaster where a mother and child fight the unknown. MayThis film has a very peculiar, but impressive approach to a horror theme plot. The acting is superior and you could empathize with every character as there is a giant emotional roller coaster where a mother and child fight the unknown. May not be all terrifying, but it sure is thrilling and considerably dark. Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
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7
MuffinManDruryJun 26, 2017
The Babadook is an uncomfortable, unconventional psychological horror that transcends its budget restrictions. It uses an unsettling score and cinematography effectively, and Essie Davis' performance - which would either make or break theThe Babadook is an uncomfortable, unconventional psychological horror that transcends its budget restrictions. It uses an unsettling score and cinematography effectively, and Essie Davis' performance - which would either make or break the film - is fortunately marvelous and believable. Despite the latter stages of the plot becoming a bit too muddled, The Babadook is a unique installment to a genre overpopulated by uninspired narratives and predictable scares. Expand
0 of 2 users found this helpful02
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7
JLuis_001Sep 6, 2017
An outstanding and purposeful work in the already unimaginative horror genre, this film has very interesting elements and you are a person who enjoy scary movies that do not support gore or cheap scare this is a definitely an important option.
0 of 18 users found this helpful018
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7
zNeverSleepingOct 14, 2020
The Babadook utiliza de elementos sobrenaturais (ou não) para desenvolver uma personagem que tem tudo para enlouquecer. Em nenhum fica claro que tudo que ela vê faz parte apenas da percepção dela. Todo o desenvolvimento até o clímax é muitoThe Babadook utiliza de elementos sobrenaturais (ou não) para desenvolver uma personagem que tem tudo para enlouquecer. Em nenhum fica claro que tudo que ela vê faz parte apenas da percepção dela. Todo o desenvolvimento até o clímax é muito bem feito, mesmo que eu acredite que entre o segundo e o terceiro ato o suspense não tenha sido administrado da melhor maneira. A identidade audiovisual do Babadook é muito bem feita. Seus sons são marcantes e seus movimentos são tão estranhos que causam repulsa em qualquer um.

Audio: English, with portuguese subtitles. Q60T 50' TV Speakers [DTS 5.1]
Quality: 1080p SDR [Bluray]
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0 of 2 users found this helpful02
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7
rappM95Jul 30, 2020
Very good performance by the lead, Essie Davis. The plot is compelling not only because of the titular character, but by the alarming circumstances this woman faces outside of the supernatural. The use of non-CGI effects added an extra layerVery good performance by the lead, Essie Davis. The plot is compelling not only because of the titular character, but by the alarming circumstances this woman faces outside of the supernatural. The use of non-CGI effects added an extra layer of creepiness. Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
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7
mrpetitionMar 23, 2023
It was alright I guess, at times it was really good and other times it was kinda **** I had higher expectations for it. I really liked the babadook charachter and it sucks we only got to see him twice, but nevertheless its worth a watch
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
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6
heloheDec 6, 2014
It is a good movie. The kid is a good actor. I liked the idea of the movie and that babadook book they find. That was kind of a cool idea, and I was hoping it will get more interesting. Unfortunately it did not get much better after the firstIt is a good movie. The kid is a good actor. I liked the idea of the movie and that babadook book they find. That was kind of a cool idea, and I was hoping it will get more interesting. Unfortunately it did not get much better after the first half of the film. It is like they just lost interest in the movie, or run out of ideas half way through. Just exorcist-like or shining-like ideas copied into this movie. It could have been so much better. I was much looking forward to seeing something scary, especially after reading many reviews that said it is a very scary and terrifying movie. Unfortunately I was disappointed. There was not a single scary thing in the movie. To the contrary, that babadook thing is kind of charming. They should have considered making a childrens movie with mr. babadook instead. Expand
2 of 7 users found this helpful25
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6
bl_nkJan 24, 2022
One of the most overrated horror movies I've ever seen. Reeks of budget constraints, with a terrible performance from the child actor and cheesy ending. Was very excited to see what the fuss was about, and walked away from the experienceOne of the most overrated horror movies I've ever seen. Reeks of budget constraints, with a terrible performance from the child actor and cheesy ending. Was very excited to see what the fuss was about, and walked away from the experience disappointed and confused. Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
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6
katezoeApr 17, 2015
A major let down after all the great reviews from critics and audiences. Very predictable story and not the thriller or psychological movie I was expecting. Ending was the final disappointment.
4 of 9 users found this helpful45
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6
brafcauknidApr 16, 2015
This is a decent movie, I had heard nothing but rave reviews for it so I was definately let down. It had potential to be an amazing movie but just never ties everything together in a coherent way, and the "payoff" feels copletelyThis is a decent movie, I had heard nothing but rave reviews for it so I was definately let down. It had potential to be an amazing movie but just never ties everything together in a coherent way, and the "payoff" feels copletely nonsensical...the first 80 minutes go in one direction only to have the ending basically ignore what the first 90% of the movie has lead to and/or established.

The actress that plays the mother is ok, but she comes off very coldhearted and hateful even to her son who is a total nightmare so I never could make myself even remotely care about all the terrible things that happened to them. I ended up rooting for the babadook, only to have him reduced to a slinking cellar dweller pet at the end. Worth watching but temper your expectations.
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3 of 7 users found this helpful34
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6
Voodoo123May 27, 2019
+Excellent cast deliver memorable performances
+Interesting cinematography
-Weak premise -Relies on the jump scare too often This movie has some great moments of personality and character spoiled somewhat (like most modern horror
+Excellent cast deliver memorable performances
+Interesting cinematography
-Weak premise
-Relies on the jump scare too often

This movie has some great moments of personality and character spoiled somewhat (like most modern horror contemporaries) by its over reliance on loud bangs and other cheap audience scares. Its a shame as some of the material holds my interest (the family drama aspect is fascinating). While Babadook misses its opportunity for greatness, it is certainly worthy of your time if you are a horror genre fan.
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0 of 0 users found this helpful00
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6
marc5477Jan 28, 2015
Definitely overrated. Its not a bad movie but I thought it was long winded and ultimately not very convincing regardless of what you thought happened in the end. The biggest problem however is that it was not original, which is hard to do.Definitely overrated. Its not a bad movie but I thought it was long winded and ultimately not very convincing regardless of what you thought happened in the end. The biggest problem however is that it was not original, which is hard to do. But for that reason, I cannot really rate this thing over a 7. It brought nothing new to the table that we had not seen before and frankly I thought the kid was over acting while the mother was underacting or was just not believable in many ways. Again, its a horror movie so I am not expecting much but at the same time the movie itself didnt have much else to talk about. It was not fun like some horror movies and it was not written well enough to feel plausible. Its kind of like Friday the 13th taking itself seriously... A solid 6 in my opinion. Expand
15 of 24 users found this helpful159
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6
ApolscJan 6, 2015
It combines stuff from the exorcist, the shinning and other great from the genre. Great perfomances by the two leading, specially the boy. Besides from that it is still a regular horror film.
1 of 3 users found this helpful12
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6
hotfromcauldronNov 28, 2014
The bad seed meets mommie dearest with glimpses of Polanski's Repulsion in this horror from down under. In the end , our inner demons are far more frightening then the fairy tale book pop-up - Babadook. Minimal special effects and maximumThe bad seed meets mommie dearest with glimpses of Polanski's Repulsion in this horror from down under. In the end , our inner demons are far more frightening then the fairy tale book pop-up - Babadook. Minimal special effects and maximum performances deliver enough scares to drop in on this haunted family. Expand
2 of 8 users found this helpful26
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6
DedBraneMikeDec 16, 2014
A certianly above average horror film, The Babadook is somewhat familiar but, (for the most part) well done. The big crippilng flaw I found with this film is the main child actor who was pretty crap to be honest. Also, the movie isn't reallyA certianly above average horror film, The Babadook is somewhat familiar but, (for the most part) well done. The big crippilng flaw I found with this film is the main child actor who was pretty crap to be honest. Also, the movie isn't really scary. Even so, I was moderately entertained by the story and great performance from the lead actress, that I can say The Babadook is at least worth look. Expand
2 of 7 users found this helpful25
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6
BaelishDec 29, 2014
Highly praised, but I don't get it. Starts building tension but somehow fails to hit the mark. The kid is just annoying. Decent work but nothing special.
3 of 9 users found this helpful36
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6
JonNajemMar 13, 2015
As a horror movie, this movie suffers from what a lot of decent horror movies do today.An intriguing build-up, with an unsatisfying ending that completely goes against the rest of the movie. In fact, the beginning to the last 20 minutes wasAs a horror movie, this movie suffers from what a lot of decent horror movies do today.An intriguing build-up, with an unsatisfying ending that completely goes against the rest of the movie. In fact, the beginning to the last 20 minutes was EXTREMELY promising. A fantastic introduction to the Babadook entity, and a few thrilling sequences. The acting was also great. By both the woman and the son. But, again. That ending. it just crushed me. Expand
4 of 7 users found this helpful43
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6
Jarhead335Aug 3, 2015
The Babadook was a decent horror Australian horror film whose imaginative story heightens the intrigue from the get-go. The Babadook is itself a horrifying antagonist, creepily done and eerily real. The atmosphere that is built up throughoutThe Babadook was a decent horror Australian horror film whose imaginative story heightens the intrigue from the get-go. The Babadook is itself a horrifying antagonist, creepily done and eerily real. The atmosphere that is built up throughout the movie was done wonderfully, particularly The Babadook's signature call, which you'll hear two or three times en route to the end. Unfortunately, though, the amazing atmospheric build-ups never culminate in a defining moment of fear. The viewer is never grabbed fully even once to feel the movie to the fullest.

However, there were a handful of wrinkles in the overall delivery, not the least of which was the terrible supporting cast. The two main characters, Amelia and her son, Sam, were portrayed beautifully, but the rest of the cast was downright D-List. Similarly, the sound work was pretty disappointing, particularly when the second encounter with the monster, where viewers will hear an all-too-familiar B-List dinosaur roar we're supposed to associate with horrifying monsters. It was pretty glaringly in contrast to the rest of the film, and detracted from the terror of the moment.

The worst part, though, was definitely the ending. It was almost as if the writers were intruded on and told that all of a sudden their deadline had been moved up to 5 minutes from then, and they for no reason had to wrap everything up with no thought or respect to the rest of the movie. Literally, the ending makes zero sense in the context of the movie itself. Not only that, but it wasn't even a GOOD ending, it was pretty brutally bad, with the usual 'everyone's hunky-dory at the end' trope tossed it when it seems nothing was actually solved.

I threw this movie on at 12:30 AM to see how scared I could make myself before I fell asleep. Despite some uneasiness after watching, I managed to drift off no problem. To me, that's not the mark of a horror classic, despite the movie's pleasantly chilling vibes.
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1 of 3 users found this helpful12
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6
Tabarra3Sep 5, 2016
Of course considering that this movie is in the horror genre, so it indeed loses a lot of points because it follows the usual format, camera angles, clichés, but i felt nothing was in too much quantity, it was all just "ok", nothing came outOf course considering that this movie is in the horror genre, so it indeed loses a lot of points because it follows the usual format, camera angles, clichés, but i felt nothing was in too much quantity, it was all just "ok", nothing came out of the usual, nothing that for me deserves a higher score than a 5, but then, you understand the details of the story that isnt that simple as you thought before, so it gets a bit more score for that reason...
It is also, because of not exagerating in the amount of the clichés the most sufferable horror movie in the past few years, it is not a masterpiece though... didnt quite fetch my full dedication or atention, it was a normal horror movie, with a quite interesting story in fact.
In conclusion, it´s not special, it is quite common, everything happens as you expect it to, even though it is a new story, the film develops just the same as any other horror movie do... it is highly overrated, because people keep getting impressed by the same old story and dont want anything new or exciting from movies... thats why cinema is dropping in quality... 6/10
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0 of 3 users found this helpful03
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6
henryesparzaSep 5, 2016
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. The movie takes such a brilliant approach to introduce and tease the audience with the "monster". However, when it comes down to delivering the goods, it really falls short.
Even though the Babadook is not the main perpetrator in this movie (it is actually Amelia's struggles to move on from Oskar and reason with her kid/accept this is the way Sam is), the portrayal of the Babadook leaves you wanting so much more.
The first half of the movie was an easy 10/10, the anticipation and eeriness of the Babadook were spot on.
The second half was really subpar.
HUGE SPOILER/CONSPIRACY:
At the end of the movie the real villain is easily acknowledged, I said it up top, and Amelia is shown to have domesticated her own demons, come to love Sam as he is, and come to accept the troubling life of single parenting. Hopefully y'all understand what I mean from that.
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0 of 6 users found this helpful06
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6
FilipeNetoAug 22, 2018
This horror film revolves around the difficult relationship between an imaginative and active son and his mother, a recent widow, both of whom seek to overcome the trauma of a very poorly resolved mourning. From an early moment, we understandThis horror film revolves around the difficult relationship between an imaginative and active son and his mother, a recent widow, both of whom seek to overcome the trauma of a very poorly resolved mourning. From an early moment, we understand the difficulties that the child brings to his mother, both of which are very poorly understood by all those around them. Sooner, the poor mother seems closer to a fit of nerves or deep depression. This finally happens when the character of a children's book (apparently written by herself) begins to take on a life of its own and to terrorize mother and child. The film is a lesson about depression, mourning and trauma. Sometimes, the bogeyman lives within ourselves and its us that we should be afraid of. The scares exist but the tense and terrifying atmosphere is something that is hardly ignored. Concerning actors, Essie Davis is the protagonist and carries the film on her back with great courage, presenting herself without makeup in order to look much more worn, as it requires her character. She is undoubtedly an artist of great talent, capable of embodying difficult characters. Expand
0 of 5 users found this helpful05
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6
FatalBrushSep 24, 2018
The movie started of as confusing and revealed one bit of information at a time. The acting was great and the setting was introduced quite well. However, at one point the movie failed to keep up with itself and all the build up tension, theThe movie started of as confusing and revealed one bit of information at a time. The acting was great and the setting was introduced quite well. However, at one point the movie failed to keep up with itself and all the build up tension, the thrilling sensation, became just laughable and mediocre. Specially the ending was a huge let down in my opinion. Although the movie did everything right at first it failed to deliver eventually. Expand
0 of 2 users found this helpful02
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6
Feels64Apr 20, 2018
I really hate to be "that guy", but this movie has some problems. It really does. I heard so much about it.. I'm not a BIG horror fan, but I respect the genre a lot. It's not that I don't enjoy the films unless I'm scared, it's actually thatI really hate to be "that guy", but this movie has some problems. It really does. I heard so much about it.. I'm not a BIG horror fan, but I respect the genre a lot. It's not that I don't enjoy the films unless I'm scared, it's actually that I'm easily scared, and this film did scare me! There were a few scenes that were truly unsettling. Essie Davis really saves this movie in my opinion. She is fantastic she really is. I don't know if anyone would talk about this movie at all if not for her. The whole concept is a bit goofy, and "The Babadook"... I mean, come on. The sounds for the monster were literally ripped straight out of 'King Kong vs Godzilla 1962'. I'm not even joking about this. A sound used in various meme videos and even video games. I can't believe they used this sound for the creature. I laughed so hard when I heard it. Despite these flaws, watching Essie act was worth enduring Noah Wiseman's (child actor that played Samuel) laughable portrayal of a stubborn child with temper trouble, and a goofy monster who sounds like that one creature from Resident Evil 4.
Despite my issues, it's a good film and I'd reccomend it. It's not groundbreaking, it's not amazing, but it's decent, and worth a watch.
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1 of 18 users found this helpful117
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6
WedhroJul 6, 2020
An ok drama hindered by an almost comical and definitely not frightening horror; the anticipation of the thing worked much better than the thing itself. A great performance by Essie Davis is the only reason why this doesn't deserve a badAn ok drama hindered by an almost comical and definitely not frightening horror; the anticipation of the thing worked much better than the thing itself. A great performance by Essie Davis is the only reason why this doesn't deserve a bad vote, but that's it. Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
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6
akshatmahajanJun 4, 2021
This type of movie is actually enjoyed in theaters as we have to create environment for it. Movie was dark, dramatic and ofcourse had horror elements in it. Except climax, movie didn't have jump scares like most of the horror movies.

Low
This type of movie is actually enjoyed in theaters as we have to create environment for it. Movie was dark, dramatic and ofcourse had horror elements in it. Except climax, movie didn't have jump scares like most of the horror movies.

Low budget and well shot, the film express the underlying feeling of dread and helplessness. This type of horror is not for everyone but you should give it a try.
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0 of 0 users found this helpful00
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6
M7AMDApr 4, 2023
the movie was genuinely horrifying, and whoever designed the book needs a raise because it looks amazing (I wish we have storybooks that have a small mechanism inside them like in the movie :) ).

As for the cast, i think they did well enough
the movie was genuinely horrifying, and whoever designed the book needs a raise because it looks amazing (I wish we have storybooks that have a small mechanism inside them like in the movie :) ).

As for the cast, i think they did well enough but truth be told i expected much more of the story than what i have seen, it was a bit slow burn at the beginning then started getting creepy midway through the movie.

Ignore the over rating in the reviews, for me it was overall 6/10.
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0 of 0 users found this helpful00
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5
nicholasbertSep 6, 2015
As a horror per se, The Babadook isn't terribly scary, and obviously follows nearly all the usual tropes of the genre: supernatural monster, fear of the dark, self-moving objects, lightbulbs that go out, kids, just a few jump scares. However,As a horror per se, The Babadook isn't terribly scary, and obviously follows nearly all the usual tropes of the genre: supernatural monster, fear of the dark, self-moving objects, lightbulbs that go out, kids, just a few jump scares. However, this is nearly inevitable, so we'll let it pass. On the other hand, the film also isn't psychologically torturing enough to really impress, As a movie, the "artsy" feel is way too protruding, the hipsteria runs very high as it is shoved into your face - especially with the extremely clean shooting and the sometimes theatrical acting of the lead. Expand
2 of 5 users found this helpful23
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5
SquezeJul 19, 2015
The entire movie is pretty much like this:
"MOM!, MOM!, MOM!, MOM! BABADOOK-DOOK-DOOK!...MOM WTF?..SCREAMS..MOM I WILL SAVE YOU!... ENDING."
Not scary, ears breaking, poor acting, waste of time. I dont really understand this big fan base
The entire movie is pretty much like this:
"MOM!, MOM!, MOM!, MOM! BABADOOK-DOOK-DOOK!...MOM WTF?..SCREAMS..MOM I WILL SAVE YOU!... ENDING."

Not scary, ears breaking, poor acting, waste of time. I dont really understand this big fan base about it.
Report for abuse of the word MOM.
5/10.
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0 of 1 users found this helpful01
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5
LowbrowCinemaNov 30, 2014
THE BABADOOK is a standard premise but in its first half is truly terrifying for being not a film nightmare or nightmare but a true living nightmare. Does that make sense? It will if you see the film. The nightmare in THE BABADOOK isTHE BABADOOK is a standard premise but in its first half is truly terrifying for being not a film nightmare or nightmare but a true living nightmare. Does that make sense? It will if you see the film. The nightmare in THE BABADOOK is parenthood and specifically, single parenting. Nothing could be more frightening. But then the horror shenanigans began and the film loses its way falling into standard contemporary horror land which is really a major disappointment. So much good is washed away by the standardness of THE BABADOOK's second half. Expand
3 of 8 users found this helpful35
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5
CameraBounceGodFeb 21, 2015
itd be nice if the movie didn't have a masturbation scene...but the little boy was a great little actor and great mother casting job.....such a good push out of the treehouse....loved it...loved how it seemed like the mom wanted the sedativesitd be nice if the movie didn't have a masturbation scene...but the little boy was a great little actor and great mother casting job.....such a good push out of the treehouse....loved it...loved how it seemed like the mom wanted the sedatives for herself kinda...i love horror movies because it really is what its like to be ugly....also i found that it looked like a giant hat was on the kids bed after the floating mom scene and she walks in his room to check on him...it was clearly designed that way...it seemed like the camera started to focus on her ass once it entered her.....coincidence...? No Expand
0 of 2 users found this helpful02
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5
KayVen17Dec 29, 2016
Deutsche Review - Kritik

Der folgende Test ist in 5 Kategorien zusammengefasst. Diese 5 Kartegorien ergeben die Gesamtpunktzahl von 0 - 100 Punkten. Um einen passenden Userscore zu geben wird auf oder abgerundet. Bei 84 Punkten ergibt das
Deutsche Review - Kritik

Der folgende Test ist in 5 Kategorien zusammengefasst. Diese 5 Kartegorien ergeben die Gesamtpunktzahl von 0 - 100 Punkten. Um einen passenden Userscore zu geben wird auf oder abgerundet. Bei 84 Punkten ergibt das einen User Score von 8. Bei 86 einen von Userscore von 9. Falls eine 85 kommt entscheide ich ob ich es eher positiv oder negativ nehme. Regeln verstanden?
Dann sind hier meine Punkte.

Mein persönlicher Score = 54/100
Mein User Score = 5/10
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0 of 1 users found this helpful01
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5
annbdOct 27, 2018
Unnecessary paid attention on minor aspects of the story line, without lining up the main subject - Babadook, who was that dude? I think it could have been freaking good if the monster was actually the death husband, for whom the motherUnnecessary paid attention on minor aspects of the story line, without lining up the main subject - Babadook, who was that dude? I think it could have been freaking good if the monster was actually the death husband, for whom the mother suffers and can't get over. But in this case he would not wants the child. Idea without realization by stable directing is useless. Either it is the idea or the directing that's lame and failed the whole thing. I would say the acting of the mother and the child save the movie. Expand
2 of 9 users found this helpful27
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4
TVJerryDec 15, 2014
A pregnant woman's husband is killed on the way to have their baby. Six years later, the widowed mother and child are still a mess and to make matters worse, an evil presence invades their home. Anyone who has seen Japanese spirit hauntingA pregnant woman's husband is killed on the way to have their baby. Six years later, the widowed mother and child are still a mess and to make matters worse, an evil presence invades their home. Anyone who has seen Japanese spirit haunting films like "The Grudge" and "The Ring" will recognize the scare tactics: ominous music, loud crashes, quick glimpses of a creepy presence and lots of terrified reactions. While the characters are compelling (especially young Noah Wiseman), the suspense is low-key and predictable. I wasn't scared or surprised once. Expand
4 of 10 users found this helpful46
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4
danielb1982Nov 14, 2016
I have to admit I was expecting it to be A LOT more scary than it actually was. It didn't scare me at any point. I kept expecting it to make me jump at certain points, but it didn't
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
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4
DanilJan 4, 2016
From all the rave reviews you might think this is some sort of smart thriller where a child's fantasy collides with his mother's schizophrenia aggravated by the loss of her husband... But it is not. It is just a mediocre low-budget horrorFrom all the rave reviews you might think this is some sort of smart thriller where a child's fantasy collides with his mother's schizophrenia aggravated by the loss of her husband... But it is not. It is just a mediocre low-budget horror flick. There are literally hundreds of horror movies that are leaps and bounds better. Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
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4
MarickJun 30, 2015
I expected to be more horror. He had some scary moments but not quite succeeded .
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
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4
MrCayugaMar 7, 2015
I can't believe that some well established critics called this "a movie of the year". (namely Mark Kermode).

The movie was NOT scary one tiny bit. The actual "scary moments" made me laugh. Maybe if someone can actually be scared by a
I can't believe that some well established critics called this "a movie of the year". (namely Mark Kermode).

The movie was NOT scary one tiny bit. The actual "scary moments" made me laugh.

Maybe if someone can actually be scared by a cartoony character from a children's book, then this movie might be actually for him.

On the plus side, actor performances were on the good side.
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5 of 11 users found this helpful56
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4
havenbasketballJun 17, 2015
The Babadook has incredible acting and a creepy atmosphere, but it has a sad and depressed feeling to it and it makes moviegoers feel more the characters, but ultimately fails at it's main job...TO SCARE!!!
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
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4
YesterFeb 1, 2020
I can appreciate how well the movie is done and the interesting concept, but the movie did nothing for me.
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
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3
imthenoobAug 5, 2019
The painfully slow build-up doesn't pay off by the end of the film. I never really felt interested or scared when watching this film. Especially with the annoying over-reliance on jump scares.
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
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3
SEROJOct 26, 2018
I don't care how you're going to explain to me "The babadook". It had very minor pros and was nothing special! I don't find this to be a good cinema, and i don't think i'll watch it again!
1 of 4 users found this helpful13
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3
GramatikaNov 23, 2017
While the first 30 minutes or so of the movie suggest a worthy premise and offer some unexpected frights, the remaining portions of the movie are just unconnected, unimaginative and - to be frank - senseless. Don't compare this to DavidWhile the first 30 minutes or so of the movie suggest a worthy premise and offer some unexpected frights, the remaining portions of the movie are just unconnected, unimaginative and - to be frank - senseless. Don't compare this to David Lynch, please - in this movie we have the bizarre for the sake of the bizarre and absolutely no underlying meaning. There is nothing to round the movie up and give it the coherence it badly needs. I am appalled that people call this one of the best horror movies of the year 2014 - it only means that the average viewer has no taste whatsoever. Expand
0 of 2 users found this helpful02
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3
darocziJan 6, 2015
Great acting, but there's no relate-able characters. There's a despicable mother, a headache-inducing child, everything is dark grey, the mood is depression and sadness from start to finish, and the horror elements are straight out of anyGreat acting, but there's no relate-able characters. There's a despicable mother, a headache-inducing child, everything is dark grey, the mood is depression and sadness from start to finish, and the horror elements are straight out of any other ghost movie, except that I didn't find them well executed in any way. I didn't care in the least if everyone in the film died. I'm not saying it's a bad film, I'm giving the reasons why I hated it. Expand
5 of 12 users found this helpful57
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3
LeoKearseMay 2, 2016
This is a weak, unpleasant film. It starts well, there are a few jolts and the film looks like it's going in an interesting direction, but then spoils it all with tricksy music video editing and showing too much of the monster, which throwsThis is a weak, unpleasant film. It starts well, there are a few jolts and the film looks like it's going in an interesting direction, but then spoils it all with tricksy music video editing and showing too much of the monster, which throws the the suspense and suspension of disbelief. It trades in atmosphere and shocks for meanness and cruelty, then meanders around and ends about 5 times. By the time it did end we'd been bored for a while. Expand
1 of 3 users found this helpful12
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3
AaronWasserman1Mar 26, 2016
The first half of this movie was intriguing. The ending and the second half, was horrible, making the whole experience not worth while. Decent performances with a total misfire
1 of 4 users found this helpful13
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3
S1r-R34lFeb 23, 2017
This film tries too hard and fails. It gives you characters you cannot relate too, which by the end you're hoping the Babadook has its evil way with them, cause the planet would be a better place without these two characters. Then there'sThis film tries too hard and fails. It gives you characters you cannot relate too, which by the end you're hoping the Babadook has its evil way with them, cause the planet would be a better place without these two characters. Then there's the ending... if the direction of the characters wasn't enough to destroy this film, then the ending should be. I was unsatisfied and disheartened. Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
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3
REEENOJul 19, 2018
Not sure what all the glowing reviews are about. This film did not scare me IN THE LEAST. Flawed script, awkward pacing, (and acting), annoying kid (He sure ain't no DANNY TORRANCE), etc. I would sooner take an uber low-budget "Friday theNot sure what all the glowing reviews are about. This film did not scare me IN THE LEAST. Flawed script, awkward pacing, (and acting), annoying kid (He sure ain't no DANNY TORRANCE), etc. I would sooner take an uber low-budget "Friday the 13th" or "Halloween" over this, as those still scare the pants off me. Maybe it's the use of cinematography with music? Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
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3
danielreviews0Dec 22, 2020
The Babadook is one of my least favorite movies. Although there were a few parts that I liked, most of it was a boring attempt at horror.
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
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2
dancrumDec 25, 2014
My friend, who is big into horror films, demanded we watch this movie. "It's the scariest movie of the year!" she exclaimed over and over. "We have to watch it!" The scariest movie of the year? Well I have to watch that don't I? So, we did.My friend, who is big into horror films, demanded we watch this movie. "It's the scariest movie of the year!" she exclaimed over and over. "We have to watch it!" The scariest movie of the year? Well I have to watch that don't I? So, we did. The thing is, I really wish we hadn't. The Babadook starts off slow, building tension between a stressed out mother and her son, who I can only assume suffers from some form of mental handicap. Throughout the first half, the film builds tension, but never enough to have you on the edge of your seat, just barely enough to keep your eyes on the screen. The second half of the movie is even worse. There is a climax that just feels rushed and sloppy, and the ending literally caused me to throw my hands up in the air. It was just, terrible, for lack of a better word. There is nothing scary about The Babadook. There is little even worth watching in The Babadook. The only saving grace was the beautifully crafted book they used in the movie. Outside of that one prop, this film was an utter waste of time. It easily falls into my list of the worst films I've seen in 2014. Expand
10 of 20 users found this helpful1010
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2
darkbeast119Nov 28, 2014
The babadook is a psychological horror film meant only for big horror fans and for the vulgar ignorant masses known as the film critic. I will admit this film will give you a scare and I only watched a few scenes in the movie. But when aThe babadook is a psychological horror film meant only for big horror fans and for the vulgar ignorant masses known as the film critic. I will admit this film will give you a scare and I only watched a few scenes in the movie. But when a maniacal mother kills her pet dog and tries to murder her own son, this gives me enough reason to call the film a utter toilet bowl splash back. The corny plot, unneeded over the top acting, gimmick scare scenes makes this film perfect for non horror film fans and i am no horror fan. Ultimately It's not the movie for me and the reason why it is so bad in the first place is because of the foolish critics who call the film perfect and keeps getting overrated like all overrated crap. So that Is my review Expand
8 of 34 users found this helpful826
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2
BlackavarsDec 6, 2014
This movie gets a lower score due to how much potential it had. Given a good script rewrite it could have been a classic. It has some small pacing issues but thats nothing compared to the tiny cast of entirely unlikable characters. The kid isThis movie gets a lower score due to how much potential it had. Given a good script rewrite it could have been a classic. It has some small pacing issues but thats nothing compared to the tiny cast of entirely unlikable characters. The kid is awful from the get go and you really hope he's the first to die. You empathize with the mom a bit for dealing with the little sh¡t but she isnt very likable either. Perhaps through the use of flashblacks they could have made you care about them more or if they added more characters to help give context rather than isolate the characters then they could have achieved the same result. But, in the end, it is just two unlikable characters that can't die soon enough. Expand
8 of 16 users found this helpful88
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2
Eye_of_HorusJul 11, 2017
Direction/Cinematography:amazing
Acting:Average
Writing:below average scare factor:Awful The concept was good but the actual writing of the characters was bad with the only good character being the dog. Jennifer Kent did a great Job with the
Direction/Cinematography:amazing
Acting:Average
Writing:below average
scare factor:Awful
The concept was good but the actual writing of the characters was bad with the only good character being the dog. Jennifer Kent did a great Job with the direction, how there are some scenes where it does completely fall apart. Essie Davis does a decent job, but Noah Wiseman is an absolutely terrible child actor. As for the Babadook, he looks awful and in no way intimidating. The Babadook's voice is laughable, somebody give him a strepsil. Overall it's one of the most overrated movies of all time
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0 of 1 users found this helpful01
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2
gt1967May 25, 2020
This film is complete drivel. Painfully slow in the build up, the young child lead is irritating and the story boring. Not getting why so many people found this to be a worthwhile watch.
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
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2
AtLeastITriedJul 18, 2020
This movie was simply, terrible. It seems stupid in the end and was a waste of time for me, but I at least got it out of the way. If you want to kill time by watching a movie, watch this.
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
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1
lightningbarerJan 1, 2015
Honestly I don't get it sometimes, there are movies that are just meh, there are movies that are terrible and there are movies that just don't even try.
the Babadook isn't any of these things.
It's like two scripts were jammed together to
Honestly I don't get it sometimes, there are movies that are just meh, there are movies that are terrible and there are movies that just don't even try.
the Babadook isn't any of these things.
It's like two scripts were jammed together to make a full one because the writers of each didn't have the patience to try and write a full story.
Or they found that the idea of the movie is silly and couldn't write their way out of it.

This movie is a mess of bad writing, it's a hodge-podge of two separate stories, one of a person under a possession going insane and one of a person "thinking" they're under a possession and due to that, losing their mind.
It's right there in the visuals, we see things hinting that all of this is based on her delusions several times, there are hints that she may have already lost her mind and forgotten that she'd done something. There's no explanation for things and there's no "reason" for anything.
Take the book itself, it's sitting there on the kid's shelf and after reading it, the babadook comes calling.
How did it get there? Why is it that a kid who has night terrors and needs a book reading to him hasn't had this book read before? Are these things just there for no reason?
There are hints that this is all in her head and she can't remember doing things, for instance she's said to be an author and we see her hands dirty from what looks like charcoal. Is this implying she made the book, forgot and after destroying it, remade it and then forgot that?

See, no reason is given, now I'll commend this for the acting and the visuals, but that alone doesn't make a good movie. It's just Bad.
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5 of 12 users found this helpful57
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1
FishersamDec 3, 2014
I hated this film. To summarize it. It is about a woman raising her child alone after her husband died in a car wreck before the child's birth.

Le me tell you why i hate this film. It was suppose to be a "scary movie". At no point was
I hated this film. To summarize it. It is about a woman raising her child alone after her husband died in a car wreck before the child's birth.

Le me tell you why i hate this film. It was suppose to be a "scary movie". At no point was anything about this film scary. There were a few exorcist-like scenes that we have all seen 277 times. The film developed extremely slow. The director focused on showing how horrible of a mother the main character is. She lets her son walk all over her and never considers disciplining him. Single mother or not, that kid needed a spanking. After filling 80% of the movie with boring back story about an annoying unruly child, they started to discuss The Babadook. The film never established the antagonist, The Babadook, or why the movie goer should be afraid of him. The film simply goes, "Hi everyone, this woman who can't get over her past doesn't know how to discipline her son. Now here is a moving suit that talks and creates wall shadows!"

I kept watching the film waiting for it to give me something but before i knew it, the end of the movie was there. I WONT but i almost want to spoil the ending so viewers wont have to sit through what I sat through. Lets just say the ending leaves a lot to be desired.

For the first half of the film, I thought the boy had autism but it just turns out, he's just a really awful person because his mother is a really awful mother. A lot of people will say the kid was just a great actor to make the viewers hate him so much but I'll counter that by saying they went overboard and focused waaayyyy too much of the film on how much of an awful kid and mother the pair were.
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7 of 19 users found this helpful712
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1
ariel84Dec 23, 2014
don't waste your money. until the allegedly scary thing appears, the film's quite good. if the story just stuck with the mother unraveling over the stress of having a strange child, it would've had this chilling, claustrophic effect. thedon't waste your money. until the allegedly scary thing appears, the film's quite good. if the story just stuck with the mother unraveling over the stress of having a strange child, it would've had this chilling, claustrophic effect. the babadook brings on histrionic acting and tired horror tropes. the pop up book was creepier than its subject. Expand
5 of 13 users found this helpful58
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1
zedzdedDec 4, 2014
I watched engrossed for the first half an hour. It seemed like an interesting story with a stressed out, well meaning single mother and her problem child and his violent antisocial behaviours and what seemed to be an over active imagination.I watched engrossed for the first half an hour. It seemed like an interesting story with a stressed out, well meaning single mother and her problem child and his violent antisocial behaviours and what seemed to be an over active imagination.

The acting was well done and both the mother and the kid are good actors.

Unfortunately the horror of the movie was laughable and when they tried to scare you, the whole thing fell apart. I started laughing at the voices that were suppose to terrify and the effects used were straight out of a student movie.

It got to the point where I completely lost interest. I continued to watch for a while but I skipped the last 15 minutes cause it was so crap. Don't believe all the reviews. This was a dreadful movie and best avoided.
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9 of 23 users found this helpful914
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1
vrchrisJan 6, 2015
If you are thinking this will be a good horror movie then you are in for a disappointment. There are no attempts to make you jump. The film relies on slowly (very tediously slowly) building up the tension and creepiness. However it reallyIf you are thinking this will be a good horror movie then you are in for a disappointment. There are no attempts to make you jump. The film relies on slowly (very tediously slowly) building up the tension and creepiness. However it really fails to do this - instead juts becoming more depressing (its basically a story about a mother struggling to cope with depression) and absurd as the film progresses. You will be hoping that the ending redeems itself but it doesn't. Nothing about the film is clever or original. The acting is shoddy. The film is so dark throughout its hard to see whats going on. The babadook looks like Marylin Manson. Avoid Expand
6 of 14 users found this helpful68
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1
Dallas25May 24, 2015
What movie did everyone watch who gave this great ratings? This movie was horrible and was more cheesy than Sharknado. The ending is absolutely ridiculous. The scariest part of this movie is when the credits start rolling and you realize youWhat movie did everyone watch who gave this great ratings? This movie was horrible and was more cheesy than Sharknado. The ending is absolutely ridiculous. The scariest part of this movie is when the credits start rolling and you realize you will never get that hour and a half of your life back. Expand
2 of 6 users found this helpful24
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1
YurchikMay 21, 2017
Very bad movie! The actors are terrible. It is not clear what kind of monster it is and what are its goals. The end of the film is also not understandable. The script is bad, it's a parody of "Exorcist" or "Astral". I did not like! In short,Very bad movie! The actors are terrible. It is not clear what kind of monster it is and what are its goals. The end of the film is also not understandable. The script is bad, it's a parody of "Exorcist" or "Astral". I did not like! In short, the film gets 1 out of 10. Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
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1
sab123Nov 27, 2020
I would actually give the movie a 5 or 6/10 but I'm giving it a 1 because of all the silly 10s people have been giving it. If you enjoy cheap scares (that only start appearing 3/4 way into a movie), average acting, mediocre scripting, jokeI would actually give the movie a 5 or 6/10 but I'm giving it a 1 because of all the silly 10s people have been giving it. If you enjoy cheap scares (that only start appearing 3/4 way into a movie), average acting, mediocre scripting, joke props, middling CGI and a nonsensical plot full of unconnected dots, then this is THE movie for you. Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
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1
smkim216Jun 27, 2018
Pretty slow beginning with not so interesting characters with premise. Had a potential to deliver but overall executed poorly. The ending especially was such a giant let down. It was the less goofy version of the Home Alone with not so muchPretty slow beginning with not so interesting characters with premise. Had a potential to deliver but overall executed poorly. The ending especially was such a giant let down. It was the less goofy version of the Home Alone with not so much scare. One of the most overrated movie in the horror genre. Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
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NazguleroMay 10, 2015
There really is nothing scary about this movie. The one thing that scares the living hell out of you is the kid. You must feel sorry for the mother, and during the entire movie, you hope that this annoying brat gets eaten alive by a terrible monster.
5 of 17 users found this helpful512
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viewerFeb 8, 2015
A film that mixes tired horror devices, pseudoscience, and some of the sexist and perverse aspects of modern Feminism that everyone seems to be warming up to these days, into a hot, steaming pot of cream of glass soup, or black vomit, orA film that mixes tired horror devices, pseudoscience, and some of the sexist and perverse aspects of modern Feminism that everyone seems to be warming up to these days, into a hot, steaming pot of cream of glass soup, or black vomit, or sh*t—take your pick. Watching this film was a sickening experience made all the more sickening by its critical acclaim. Also, despite the fact that many (presumably blind and deaf) critics state that this film does not rely on jump scares, . . . it kinda does. Yes, the film also employs stale psychological thriller tactics to try to scare you, but that doesn't just erase the jump scares, nor does it make it an innovative or scary film; all that does is make it a film that tries and fails to scare you with two standard genre tactics in a very predictable way. Think of this movie as an un-scary, un-atmospheric "The Shining," meets every jump-scare horror film with a child and a monster, meets every modern possession film. My theory as to why this movie received critical acclaim is that the critics were so tired of dissing stale horror films that they physically couldn't do it anymore due to severe nausea and were compelled to give it a positive review—that or the Babadook possessed them. Expand
7 of 17 users found this helpful710
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Death0fLoveAug 24, 2015
I found absolutely nothing about this movie enjoyable. I found it impossible to care about the mother or her son (needless to say, I wanted him dead when he was in the back of the car annoyingly crying out "mommy" repeatedly). You aren'tI found absolutely nothing about this movie enjoyable. I found it impossible to care about the mother or her son (needless to say, I wanted him dead when he was in the back of the car annoyingly crying out "mommy" repeatedly). You aren't given any real back story to understand exactly what is going on until half way through the movie they FINALLY explain that the father/husband died trying to get the mother to the hospital when she went into labor. Everything before that you just have a mother who doesn't really care about her son and her son who is the most annoying child in any movie in the history of cinematography and his obsession with monsters and his night terrors. The fact that they try to force viewers to swallow the concept of a mother resenting her only child just on the grounds that her husband/father of her child died the day the child was born is completely asinine. So a mother unrealistically resents her only child for nearly 7 years and, after merely reading a book, becomes "possessed" and starts to go "crazy." Where did the book come from? It was obviously a scary story so why the hell did she read it to her son that is prone to night terrors? Logic is one of the things this movie is sorely missing. None of it actually makes sense. The "creature" (which is a cheap mix-up of Freddy Krueger & Nosferatu with the most laughable voice) is supposed to be a representation of her suppressed emotions about what happened to her husband yet it somehow, by the end of the movie, becomes an actual supernatural being living in the basement?! I cannot fathom how this movie is getting such praise when it is an absolute **** of stupidity. I really wish I could have the $5 I wasted to rent this movie as well as the 90 minutes I wasted watching it back. This was, without a doubt, the worst, bland, non-frightening, unappealing horror movie I have ever watched. I don't care if people dislike my review. This is my opinion of this **** movie and I hated every second of it. Expand
4 of 10 users found this helpful46
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Pelen23Feb 24, 2015
This so called scary film is a waste of time and I blame the critics for the hype as the film has lots of plot holes and undeveloped subplots . Surely , the critics would have noticed but they still give good reviews to this rubbish. Over theThis so called scary film is a waste of time and I blame the critics for the hype as the film has lots of plot holes and undeveloped subplots . Surely , the critics would have noticed but they still give good reviews to this rubbish. Over the top performances caused lots of giggles in the cinema. Even this proves that the film is far from being scary. Expand
8 of 20 users found this helpful812
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Drizz1114Nov 29, 2014
I just watched this movie. I was rooting for the babadook! one of the worst movies I have ever seen! I will give the lead actress kudos, but story line was awful. I will be calling directv to get my money back
11 of 56 users found this helpful1145
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ladypewSep 10, 2015
Most overrated piece of horror. ever. can't even............................................................................................................
4 of 13 users found this helpful49
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rageinblackJul 7, 2018
I'm not exaggerating one bit when I say this is one of the worst movies I have ever seen in my entire life! And I watched horror movies for 30 years. But this one is so bad that I seriously felt the urge to gauge my eyes out! I mean really?!?I'm not exaggerating one bit when I say this is one of the worst movies I have ever seen in my entire life! And I watched horror movies for 30 years. But this one is so bad that I seriously felt the urge to gauge my eyes out! I mean really?!? How on earth did anyone think, that two such atrociously unlikable and annoying characters with a laughably ridiculous looking monster and a mediocre story, would ever make a good movie? The whole movie is a pain to watch from start to finish, every minute is atrocious! There is absolutely nothing good about it, except the nicely crafted book, and the overall visual atmosphere of that house and its surroundings and that couple of seconds of the CGI monster at the very end. I honestly can't remember where was the last time I wanted a movie to end so bad, I was seriously tempted to turn it off many many times, but due to all the hype surrounding it, I was determined to keep on going till the end. To keep torturing myself... I wish I hadn't. A waste of time and nerves and with such a mediocre story and no redeeming factor whatsoever. Also, I didn't find the kid to be a good actor the least. Besides being so unbearably annoying, his scenes looked forced and pushed. Like in my mind, I could almost see the movie crew telling him what to do in the background, and him listening to them and suddenly executing orders on the spot, it was really that bad. The mother was the better actress, but not very likable and also quite annoying. The scene where the Babadook was shown flying off the ceiling with the stop-motion effect was simply awful. But what hurts me even more about the whole thing is that I'm watching the whole world gone insane before my very eyes; praising this movie like possessed! Like, I keep seeing this boring, annoying little movie on top of the best horror movies charts of the year and even of all time!!! And here on Metacritic, it has a higher rating than Alien. Can you even imagine??? This little mess of a movie has a higher rating than The Host, Carrie, Get Out, The Witch, Drag Me to Hell, Alien, Sweeney Todd, A Quiet Place, ... Just to name a few movies that are on the top but, unfathomably, still under The Babadook. Take a minute and let this sink into your head now. What are you guys even doing with your life here at Metacritic? But it's not only Metacritic, it's everywhere. This kind of things make me lose hope in the future of horror movies, and this is sad.

In conclusion, this movie is overrated like hell and it blows my mind to not being able to even nearly comprehend why it got so much praise, besides the gay community. As you may know, in 2017 The Babadook became the official gay icon for the pride month, but still... this was in 2017. This movie got praised since it came out, but why? I would not recommend it to my worst enemy. I hated it, it's pure torture of the body mind and soul.
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2 of 6 users found this helpful24
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kerrflannAug 3, 2016
absolute garbage wouldn't recommend to anyone the start made it seem ok then it got progressively boring.
the 'monster' was so boring too. i literally just finished watching and i think i need a nap so bad. only watch if you're bored. oh
absolute garbage wouldn't recommend to anyone the start made it seem ok then it got progressively boring.
the 'monster' was so boring too. i literally just finished watching and i think i need a nap so bad. only watch if you're bored. oh yeah and hows this got 98% on rotten tomatoes.. bruhhh
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3 of 23 users found this helpful320
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PaddzonikJul 10, 2023
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. The dog dies! The film was going okay a bit slow but the dog dies so I have no choice! Expand
0 of 2 users found this helpful02
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AnActualSharkJun 18, 2021
This movie is garbage for your eyes and ears. The protagonist kid is incredibly annoying, with zero redeeming qualities and makes you want to root for the monster. The mother is a bland boring character who is frustrated (justifiably) withThis movie is garbage for your eyes and ears. The protagonist kid is incredibly annoying, with zero redeeming qualities and makes you want to root for the monster. The mother is a bland boring character who is frustrated (justifiably) with her annoying child. The monster is barely present. You are just sitting through a movie of these two lame humans. This movie sucks, do yourself a favor and watch something else. Expand
1 of 29 users found this helpful128
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