The Baby 1973 FILM REVIEW

I don't tend to watch a lot of films from the 70s, but this one really caught my eye while I was scrolling for something to watch on Amazon Prime. When I saw the title and the poster, I genuinely thought that it would be some stupid comedy movie about a man that doesn't grow up, a bit like Peter Pan but it stars a bunch of comedic actors from the time that I have never heard of, but I was wrong. It's like a psychological horror/thriller kind of film. It's not scary, it's just very disturbing. Directed by Ted Post (director of some episodes of Rawhide, Hang 'Em High and Magnum Force, all starring Clint Eastwood), it tells the story of a social worker (played by Anjanette Comer) who investigates the Wadsworth's, an eccentric family consisting of a mother (played by Ruth Roman), her two adult daughters (played by Marianna Hill and Suzanne Zenor) and her baby son. Here's the twist, the son (played by David Mooney), who is nicknamed "Baby" throughout the film, is twenty-one years old and he acts like he is an infant due to his mental disability and how his mother and sisters raised him, full of neglect and abuse. I can't believe I thought this was a shitty comedy and instead, I watched a film that will probably leave me scarred and disturbed for life. 

The film earns its high rating for its ability to create a sense of discomfort and suspense without relying on excessive gore or jump scares. Instead, the horror stems from the psychological terror and the twisted dynamics within the family. The performance of Ruth Roman was super chilling, as she perfectly embodies the deranged love that keeps her son in a state of perpetual infancy. The other performances stand-out performances include Anjanette Comer and David Mooney.

The film's strength lies in its relentless sense of unease. The audience is constantly questioning the motives of the characters and the true nature of their relationships. The plot unfolds with a slow-burning intensity, building to a shocking and unforgettable climax. The Baby's exploration of themes like family dysfunction, control, and the fragility of sanity makes it more than just a simple horror show. It's a deep dive into the darkest corners of the human psyche.

While the film's low-budget origins are occasionally apparent in some of the production values, this only adds to its cult classic charm. It’s a B-movie gem that has rightfully earned its place among the most memorable and bizarre horror films of its era. For fans of psychological thrillers and unconventional horror, The Baby is a must-see.

8/10