The Babadook Turns 10, Plus An Interview With Writer/Director Jennifer Kent
Sep 20, 2024
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Jennifer Kent, celebrated for her haunting film The Babadook, discusses its ten-year legacy as a cornerstone of elevated horror. The conversation explores the film's deep themes of motherhood and grief through protagonist Amelia's struggles. They dive into the emotional resonance horror can evoke, celebrating the complexity of characters and their impacts on audiences. Kent also reflects on the film's unexpected status as a queer icon, highlighting its cultural relevance and ongoing discussions around trauma and empathy.
The Babadook has evolved into a queer cultural icon, generating memes and resonating with LGBTQ+ audiences beyond its horror roots.
The film powerfully explores the psychological challenges of grief and parenting, using the Babadook as a metaphor for suppressed emotions.
Deep dives
The Babadook's Cultural Impact
The Babadook has evolved from a horror film into a significant cultural phenomenon, particularly notable for its embrace by the LGBTQ+ community, where it is hailed as a queer icon. This unexpected turn was highlighted through various memes and representations that emerged after its release, showcasing the character in new and humorous contexts. Jennifer Kent, the film's director, acknowledged that the film’s reception far exceeded expectations, as audiences began to connect deeply with its themes beyond horror. This widespread cultural permeation emphasizes the film's resonance with diverse audiences, highlighting the ways in which it has transcended its initial genre constraints.
Exploring Themes of Grief and Parenthood
The Babadook navigates complex themes surrounding grief and the challenges of parenthood, focusing on the psychological struggles of the main character, Amelia. The narrative delves into the often-taboo feelings experienced by parents, including frustration and helplessness, presenting these emotions with raw honesty. As the film progresses, it becomes evident that the Babadook symbolizes suppressed emotions and unresolved grief, serving as a potent metaphor for the processes parents undergo while dealing with loss. The film's effective exploration of these deep-rooted issues invites reflection on the balance between personal grief and parental responsibilities.
The Unique Scare Factor
Rather than relying on traditional jump scares, The Babadook evokes a more existential form of horror that lingers with viewers long after watching. The terror stems from the central character's struggle with internal demons, representing the suppression of painful emotions, which many find relatable. This psychological depth challenges the notion of what constitutes a 'scary' movie, as audiences often expect adrenaline-fueled experiences. Ultimately, the film redefines fear, leading to a discussion about how horror can serve as a vehicle for exploring profound emotional truths rather than simply providing thrills.
On the September 20, 2024 episode of /Film Daily, /Film editor Ben Pearson is joined by /Film editor BJ Colangelo to talk about Jennifer Kent’s 2014 movie The Babadook, and we’ll present an interview with Jennifer Kent.
You can find more about all the stories we mentioned on today’s show at slashfilm.com, and linked inside the show notes.
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