Why Michael Myers in Halloween (2018) Did Not Kill the Baby

Taboos in Production

Most production companies consider infanticide a taboo subject. Until the original “Pet Sematary” in 1989, it was quite controversial to kill young children in films, unless the film was a docudrama or biopic. This taboo extends particularly in American cinema. While there are instances of child killings in films, they are rare.

It is important to remain aware of these taboos when examining Halloween (2018), as they might influence production decisions and character behaviors, even in a horror context.

Michael Myers and the Baby

In the 2018 adaptation of Halloween, Michael Myers abstains from killing baby Laurie Strode. This decision might be rooted in the film's treatment of innocence. Unlike many of his kills, which often target individuals of innocence, the filmmakers chose to wait until Laurie grew into a young adult to confront her.

Many viewers and critics feel that Michael's regularization of killing Laurie stems from her innocence as a baby. When she was a child, he seemed to seek out targets like Marion and Judith, both of whom later played significant roles. However, at the time of her infancy, she was seen more as a bystander or a potential future threat, rather than an active target.

Psychological Insights into Michael Myers

Michael Myers, a recurring character in the Halloween franchise, is often portrayed as a psychopathic killer with a clear vendetta against Laurie Strode. However, his behavior sometimes deviates from this expected path, which invites a closer look into his psychological motivations.

When the Myers family discovers baby Laurie, it is a defining moment in the film's narrative. Michael realizes the potential for her to develop and become a future threat. The decision not to kill the baby, but to watch her grow up instead, can be interpreted as a strategic move. Michael is giving herself time to develop and learn more about him, possibly to find a way to finally kill her later on. This coping mechanism is often seen in real-life serial killers and psychopaths in literature and media.

Film Criticism and Audience Perception

Critics and audiences have debated Michael's decision to not kill little Laurie. Many argue that this choice gives the film a fresh perspective on the franchise, contrasting it with earlier installments like "Halloween: Resurrection," where Michael was depicted as a full-blown psychopath from the start.

However, some believe this decision is a narrative manipulation, serving to build up tension and suspense more effectively. By delaying the confrontation, the filmmakers aim to create a more compelling storyline that requires viewers to root for Laurie's survival as she grows up to exact her revenge.

Conclusion

Michael Myers's decision not to kill the baby Laurie Strode in Halloween (2018) is a pivotal moment that deserves consideration beyond the surface of a horror movie. It reflects the production company's navigation of taboos in film, and offers a psychological insight into the character's motivations. The choice to have Michael watch over baby Laurie while she grows up into a significant threat sets up a different type of confrontation, one that tests the nuances of innocence and evil in the world of Halloween.

Understanding these elements informs our appreciation of the film and deepens our engagement with the characters and story. Whether viewers find this decision effective or controversial, it remains a crucial aspect of the Halloween franchise and a testament to the enduring complexity of Michael Myers' characterization.