Well directed, acted and a visual feast but missing the fear factor

Rating: 6/10 (29 November 2017)

The Babadook can't be faulted for the acting, or directing, choppy editing and cinematography. Even the Babadook book itself is charming in a dark and quirky way. The plot and Babadook itself can be decoded after the film has finished as to whether it is a metaphorical or empirical force which is always an enjoyable post horror discussion. Undoubtedly a film about grief, depression and loneliness this film raises some interesting introspective points as well as questioning sanity itself. as it is better than many horror films out there I wanted to say it is OK viewing for most, I didn't find it remotely scary however but is satisfying in its slotting into the psychological horror genre with ease.
But.
Not entirely sure why all the adults hated Samuel without any understanding or care to understand his needs. Of all of the children I have known that have emotional/behavioral needs people go out of their way to understand them, most of all children. It seems cold and unrealistic that adults would openly detest him. I understand he hurt children but to loath a child for this who is clearly in need of help just appeared off to me. Don't entirely understand either why the Mum and child never really left the house. Who in their right mind if they were freaked out would repeatedly sleep in the same room and house night after night? Also, shouting at the Babadook made it retreat? I'll have to try that next time I have a creepy encounter. What is the Babadook and what does it want? I found myself asking that question throughout, what is the point of it if it is in fact real? I guess that's why people assume it is a manifestation of guilt/trauma/bereavement, she finally took control of her life and that manifestation drew away.