“If it’s in a word or it’s in a look, you can’t get rid of the Babadook.” So goes the scariest fairy tale since Hansel met Gretel. It’s also the core of Aussie writer/director Jennifer Kent’s debut film, The Babadook, which premiered at Sundance to rave reviews and sits at a 98 percent fresh on Rotten Tomatoes – almost unheard of for the horror genre.
Horror fiends are no stranger to The Babadook, but those who avoid the genre might be pleased to know Kent calls the tale a love story. Just know it’s a “love story” that toys with one’s darkest fears, confronting the monsters who live not only in closets or under beds, but within us all.
Speaking of monsters, The Babadook is based on Kent’s 2005 black-and-white short film titled Monster. Similar to the Guillermo del Toro-presented short, Mama, which its creator Andrés Muschietti then used to produce a feature-length film, Monster has just enough tricks and jump scares to get the blood pumping. Do yourself a favor and give it a go below.
The Babadook is in theaters and available now On Demand.
Courtesy of Causeway Films