The Babadook

Amelia Vanek's life takes a devastating turn when her husband, Oskar, dies in a car accident while rushing her to the hospital for labor. This traumatic event leaves her grief-stricken and struggling to raise their son, Samuel, on her own in Adelaide.

Following the loss of his father, Samuel begins to exhibit troubling behaviors, including insomnia and an overwhelming fixation on an imaginary monster. This monster becomes a source of fear for both Samuel and Amelia, intensifying their already strained relationship.

One night, in search of comfort, Samuel asks Amelia to read from a pop-up storybook titled 'Mister Babadook.' The book introduces a sinister creature that is said to torment those who acknowledge its existence, heightening Amelia's unease and Samuel's fears.

As days go by, Amelia starts experiencing a series of strange occurrences in their home such as doors opening and eerie noises. These unsettling events escalate as she becomes increasingly frustrated with Samuel's insistence that the Babadook is the source of their troubles.

In a moment of desperation, Amelia tears apart the Mister Babadook book and throws it away, hoping to rid themselves of the influence of the creature. However, this act only amplifies the sinister presence, leading to further haunting manifestations.

During Sam's birthday party, tensions peak when his cousin, Ruby, ridicules him for being fatherless. In a moment of anger, Sam retaliates and accidentally injures Ruby, showcasing the extent of his distress and the impact of the Babadook's influence.

Amelia's mental state continues to deteriorate, leading her to seek assistance from a pediatrician. The doctor prescribes sedatives for Samuel, but Amelia's struggle with her haunting memories and the omnipresent Babadook remains unaddressed.

The morning after seeking help, Amelia is startled to find the Mister Babadook book mysteriously reassembled and containing new ominous messages. This revelation deepens her fear and confusion about the entity that seems to have taken over their lives.

Amelia begins to experience terrifying nightmares where the Babadook invades her dreams, resulting in chilling hallucinations. The lines between reality and her declining mental state blur as she contemplates violent acts towards her son.

In a climactic confrontation, Amelia becomes fully possessed by the Babadook and threatens her son. However, in a poignant moment, Samuel's love and tenderness help her regain control and expel the creature from her being.

After regaining control, Amelia confronts the Babadook and confines it to the basement, symbolizing her acceptance of her grief and darkness. This act signifies a pivotal moment in their battle against the traumatic memories haunting them.

With the Babadook contained, Amelia and Samuel embark on a path toward healing. Amelia embraces her role as a nurturing mother, allowing her son to express his creativity and supporting his interests.

In a symbolic gesture of coexistence, Amelia and Samuel gather earthworms as offerings for the Babadook. This act signifies her acceptance of the darkness within her life and marks a new phase in their healing.

Finally, Amelia and Samuel step outside to celebrate Sam's birthday, reclaiming joy and normalcy in their lives. They acknowledge that while the shadows of the past remain, they have the strength to move forward together.