The Babadook

A widowed single mother, Amelia, is grief-stricken and struggling to raise her hyperactive son, Samuel, who is terrified of a monster he claims lives in the house. When a disturbing children's book titled 'Mister Babadook' appears, Samuel becomes convinced the creature from the book is real. As the book's sinister presence grows, Amelia finds herself increasingly plagued by violent nightmares and terrifying hallucinations, blurring the lines between reality and her own deteriorating mental state.

The Babadook was met with widespread critical acclaim, particularly for its exploration of grief, motherhood, and mental health, disguised as a terrifying horror film. Critics praised Jennifer Kent's assured direction, Essie Davis's powerhouse performance, and the film's unsettling atmosphere and psychological depth. It was lauded for its intelligent approach to horror, focusing on emotional dread rather than jump scares, and was considered one of the best horror films of the year and a significant debut for its director.

• A masterclass in psychological horror that taps into the anxieties of motherhood and grief.

• Essie Davis delivers a captivating and harrowing performance as a mother unraveling.

• The film's intelligent script and unsettling atmosphere create a deeply disturbing and memorable experience.

Google audience: Audience reviews frequently highlight the film's effectiveness as a horror movie, praising its ability to create genuine dread and suspense. Many viewers connected with the emotional depth of the story, particularly its portrayal of a mother's struggle with her own mental health and the pressures of single parenthood. The Babadook is often cited as a thinking person's horror film that lingers long after viewing.

Nominated for 11 AACTA Awards, winning Best Original Screenplay and Best Actress for Essie Davis. Nominated for Best Film Not in the English Language at the BAFTA Awards. Included on numerous 'best of' lists for 2014.

Director Jennifer Kent based the Babadook character on a dream she had about a tall, thin man with a top hat and a hook for a finger.