Exploring the Legacy of “The Babadook” 10 Years Later: A Look Back at the Scariest Movie of 2014

The Babadook: A Decade Later, Still Terrifying

As we approach the 10-year anniversary of Jennifer Kent’s horror masterpiece, The Babadook, it’s worth revisiting the impact and lasting legacy of this chilling film. Released in 2014, The Babadook quickly became a cultural phenomenon, hailed as one of the scariest movies of all time by critics and audiences alike.

The Babadook follows the story of a grieving mother, Amelia, and her young son, Sam, as they are terrorized by a malevolent entity known as the Babadook. What sets The Babadook apart from other horror films is its exploration of themes such as grief, trauma, and mental illness, using the supernatural as a metaphor for the characters’ inner demons.

Despite some backlash over its portrayal of mental illness, The Babadook remains a masterclass in tension and psychological horror. Jennifer Kent’s direction is both assured and innovative, defying audience expectations and delivering scares that still hold up a decade later.

The performances of Essie Davis as Amelia and Noah Wiseman as Sam are also worth noting, as they bring depth and humanity to their characters, making the terror all the more palpable. And of course, the Babadook himself remains one of the most iconic horror villains of the 21st century.

As we reflect on the impact of The Babadook, it’s clear that this film has left a lasting mark on the horror genre, inspiring a new wave of trauma-informed horror films that continue to push boundaries and challenge audiences. So, if you’re looking for a good scare this Halloween season, why not revisit The Babadook and see if it still sends shivers down your spine?