Screened at SXSW 2024, Jon Bell’s debut feature, ‘The Moogai, delves into the chilling realm of Aboriginal folklore and maternal paranoia, offering a unique blend of psychological horror and cultural exploration. Set against the backdrop of modern-day Australia, the film follows Sarah and Fergus, a young Aboriginal couple, as they navigate the complexities of parenthood and confront a malevolent force threatening their family, while the stars do align in some aspects for Bell, the story falls short.
Shari Sebbens delivers a captivating performance as Sarah, a successful attorney, grapples with the sudden onset of terrifying visions. Sebbens skillfully portrays Sarah’s descent into madness, capturing the character’s mounting fear and desperation with raw intensity. As Sarah’s husband, Fergus, Meyne Wyatt delivers a nuanced portrayal of a man torn between his love for his wife and his growing concern for her mental well-being.
At its core, ‘The Moogai’ explores themes of post-partum depression, medical distrust, and the enduring trauma of Australia’s “Stolen Generations.” Through Sarah’s harrowing journey, the film sheds light on the devastating impact of historical injustices on Aboriginal communities, drawing parallels between the supernatural terror of the Moogai and the real-life horrors faced by Indigenous peoples.
While the film boasts a talented cast and a compelling premise, it ultimately needs to improve its execution. Bell needs to strike a balance between atmospheric tension and heavy-handed messaging, which results in a narrative that feels disjointed and shallow. Despite its flaws, ‘The Moogai offers moments of genuine terror, with the titular demon as a formidable antagonist.
Visually, the film is a mixed bag, with striking cinematography offset by uneven special effects. The Moogai’s design is suitably menacing, but its appearance in the final act feels underwhelming compared to the eerie buildup throughout the film. Similarly, Aboriginal folklore adds depth to the story, but the script often veers into cliché territory, detracting from the overall impact.
Ultimately, ‘The Moogai’ is a missed opportunity—a film with potential that eventually fails to deliver on its promise. While Sebbens delivers a standout performance, and the film’s exploration of Indigenous culture is commendable, its heavy-handed approach and lackluster execution leave much to be desired. As a result, ‘The Moogai’ falls short of its ambitions, leaving audiences with a sense of disappointment rather than dread.