Common Sense Note
Parents need to know that The Babadook is a horror film about a creepy children's book with terrible threats that start coming true (the title is an anagram for "a bad book"). Though it's a very well-made movie with strong characters and emotionally resonant situations, it can be very intense and frightening, especially considering that a 6-year-old boy is frequently in peril. There are nightmare sequences, knives, stabbing, and some blood and gore. The boy also makes his own anti-monster weapons. Language is infrequent, but "f--k," "s--t," "bitch" are used. The mother attempts to use a vibrator under her blankets; she moans in pleasure but is interrupted by her son. Some teen horror fans may not be interested, given the focus on a mother and son rather than on teen characters, but this is an excellent addition to the genre for fans.
Sexual
Content
A woman attempts to use a vibrator under her blankets. She moans with pleasure but is interrupted by her young son. Couples kissing.
Violence
Frightening incidents with a young boy in peril. Scary threats. A young girl is pushed out of a tree house. A boy uses his own homemade weapons (dart gun, baseball launcher, etc.). Knives wielded, with some stabbing. Nightmare sequences with death. Blood shown. Seizures. Falling down the stairs. Dead dog. Monster attacks. Vomiting icky black stuff.
Language
Infrequent strong language includes "f--k," "s--t," "bitch," and "crap."
Social
Behavior
A mother and son slowly learn to overcome a tragedy and become closer. They also learn to beware of spooky books that turn up unexplained.
Consumerism
Not applicable
Drugs / Tobacco /
Alcohol
Not applicable
