'Best horror film' fans have ever seen now streaming on Netflix

Edinburgh Live

31-05-2025

Our community members are treated to special offers, promotions and adverts from us and our partners. You can check out at any time. More info
Boasting an impressive 98 per cent rating on Rotten Tomatoes, The Babadook is a 2014 indie psychological horror film that has garnered a cult following since its debut.
The film, based on Jennifer Kent's 2005 short film Monster, was both penned and directed by Kent, marking her first foray into feature-length directing. The cast includes young Noah Wiseman as Samuel Vanek and Essie Davis delivering a compelling performance as Amelia Vanek, with Daniel Henshall, Hayley McElhinney, Barbara West, and Ben Winspear rounding out the top-notch ensemble.
Currently available on Netflix, The Babadook tells the chilling tale of a widowed single mum, Essie, who, along with her son Sam, grapples with a sinister humanoid monster in their home that simply won't leave.
Kent reportedly began crafting the screenplay in 2009, aiming to delve into themes of grief, parenting, and the terror of insanity.
Funding for the film was sourced from Australian government grants and partially through crowdfunding. The shoot took place in Adelaide, where the crew made sure to protect six year old Wiseman from the film's eerie undertones, reports the Daily Record.
(Image: PA)
The eponymous monster and special effects were reportedly realised using stop-motion animation and practical effects.
The film smashed the global box office, pocketing an impressive $10 million against a modest $2 million budget. Despite its worldwide success, The Babadook received a lukewarm response in Australia, managing a mere $258,000.
It initially charmed audiences at its Sundance Film Festival debut in January 2014.
Film buffs were utterly taken by "The Babadook," with one critic hailing it as: "One of the strongest, most effective horror films of recent years - with awards-quality lead work from Essie Davis, and a brilliantly designed new monster who could well become the break-out spook archetype of the decade."
While accolades poured in with another critic branding it "one of the smartest and most effective horror films in years", yet another praised: "This psychological thriller from gifted first-time filmmaker Jennifer Kent will have you climbing the walls simply by plumbing the violence of the mind. Brace yourself."
(Image: FREE FILM STILL / FREE TO USE)
Praise wasn't in short supply, with one saying: "Let a law be passed, requiring all horror films to be made by female directors."
Another added: "Manages to deliver real, seat-grabbing jolts while also touching on more serious themes of loss, grief and other demons that can not be so easily vanquished."
Cinema-goers echoed critics' sentiments, with one praising: "Excellent, suspenseful movie with incredible acting, especially from the child actor. This movie, at 10 years old already, will be a classic. The Rotten Tomato score is SPOT ON with 98%!".
One viewer was thoroughly impressed, writing: "This is definitely one of the best horror movies I've ever seen. Not only was it terrifying, but it really made me care about the characters. I highly recommend it for horror fans!".
Another enthusiast couldn't contain their enthusiasm, writing in all caps: "ONE OF THE MOST PERFECT MOVIES I'VE EVER SEEN! This film was no joke! Although no jump scares, this movie has proven that you don't need cheep jump scares and gore to make a proper horror film. The performances of the two characters and the atmosphere of everything is what made this movie truly terrifying in it's own ways. One other thing to mention is the emotional story that grabs you from start to finish. The Babadook is a unique work of cinema unlike anything you've ever seen! What a masterpiece!".
Meanwhile, another viewer admitted a change of heart: "I made fun of this movie when I first watched it. Until it was late at night and I was trying to fall asleep...then I ate my words."