The Nightingale (2019) - Movie Review

Much like with Ari Aster and Midsommar, this review is basically going to be me admitting that I severely underestimated the director on their previous work. Except I can’t even blame the density of the material this time around; I legit just wasn’t experienced enough in cinema to give Jennifer Kent’s The Babadook its fair due.

For the incredibly unconventional and confronting work it was, one that dealt with parenthood and depression in a way that truly blind-sided me on first viewing, it really took me a second viewing to properly get over what were ultimately some rather minor grievances with the film’s tone. Or, more accurately, my inability to understand the tone. And much like with Midsommar, I’m not leaving anything to chance now that I’m fully aware of what this director is capable of. And oh boy, is this one hell of a follow-up to one of the greatest horror flicks of the 2010’s.

The Babadook (2014) - Movie Review

Today’s film almost seems like the ultimate underdog story: A filmmaking debut from an Australian director/writer partially funded by Kickstarter and given a wide release in both Australia and the U.S. to massive critical hype. This is the kind of production that gives me serious pride in my country and what its creative minds can accomplish, as well as some faith in my own creative ambitions knowing that others have paved the way. However, much like films, a great story only means as much as what results from it. As such, it’s time to engage in some more horror for the holidays.