The Babadook became an unlikely LGBTQ+ icon two years ago thanks to Tumblr and some Netflix issues.
And the terrifying illustration that tormented a mother and son in the 2014 horror movie just keeps giving back to the community.
To celebrate Pride Month, a special rainbow edition of The Babadook is being produced, and its just another reason to love the internet.
Shout Factory confirmed they would be selling 2,500 copies of a special Blu-ray edition of the Australian horror, featuring the fabled Babadook against the colours of the LGBTQ flag.
They said: Thanks to the unpredictable world of social media, viral videos and passionate fans, The Babadook became an unexpected and embraced LGBTQ mascot in 2017 and even carried over into last year as well. This year, we fling the closet doors open even further to cement his status!
Weve created a special release with participation from our fine partners at IFC Midnight: an official limited edition and numbered Pride Month-themed slipcover packaging that will be shrink-wrapped over our existing Blu-ray release. The slipcover has a gloss finish with embossed highlights.
A percentage of proceeds from all Shout Factory Blu-ray and DVD sales throughout June will go towards the Los Angeles LGBT Center, so the stunt is both hilarious and lovely.
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If youre wondering why the Babadook – the titular monster in a top hat in the creepy book Mister Babadook that possesses people who learn of its existence – is actually a queer legend, we need to go back to late 2016, when a Tumblr user jokingly (but kind of seriously?) theorised that the monster was gay.
They wrote: Whenever someone says the Babadook isnt openly gay its like?? Did you even watch the movie??
Then, a screenshot began circulating of The Babadook reportedly accidentally being sorted into the LGBT movies category by Netflix.
Thus, an LGBTQ+ icon was born.
Pride marches in 2017 saw countless people dressing up as the Babadook, while Miles Jai even dressed up as the phantom to attend the finale of RuPauls Drag Race.
And two years on, even the creator of the critically acclaimed horror has recognised that the character is indeed gay.
More: LGBT
Speaking to Bloody Disgusting, Jennifer Kent said: Of course, I love that story. I think its crazy and just kept him alive.
I thought, “Ah, you b*****d”. He doesnt want to Read More – Source
