A metaphor for ones inner demons

Rating: 10/10 (4 January 2015)

DEPENDING ON WHETHER YOU AGREE WITH MY INTERPRETATION COULD BE SAID TO CONTAIN SPOILERS.
Without giving too much away the main theme of this movie is not an imaginary monster come to life. The true theme of this film is traumatic loss, how we cope or fail to cope with it and how, if possible, we somehow reconcile our inner demons.
Its clear from the outset that the main character has, in fact, tragically and irrecoverably failed to deal with her personal demons. If you pay close attention I do not think this can in any way be denied.
The final scene really spells out what has happened. Like the young boys magic tricks its hardly real. Its the conjuring of a fevered mind wanting to wash away the awful reality of what it has done and replace it with a beautiful, if illogical, fantasy.
There is a secondary theme here too about the manner in which family, employers and authorities treat those who are under extreme pressure as a result of loss. Its damning assessment too, one that speaks stridently and honestly of indifference and selfishness.
There are no happy endings in the Babadook. Its a hard, sad watch but also very compelling and emotional. There is a positive message too for those willing to listen. Don't ignore others suffering, don't turn your back, expect better from yourself personally, from those around you and your government. A timely message in an age where people seem to care less and less about one another.
What more can I say. Yet another superb Australian film that employs an exceptional cast and is masterfully directed. Ten out of ten from me.