The Moogai is an Australian horror film about a mother who starts seeing a malevolent spirit she is convinced is trying to take her baby. Source: Australian Catholics.
The film opens with a statement about the Stolen Generation and the decades-long practice of government authorities taking young Indigenous children from their mothers and settling them with white families.
But, along with this Australian social background, the filmmakers introduce Aboriginal themes, especially the story of the Moogai, a strange bogeyman character that in First Nations lore wants to kidnap and possess children.
The film was written and directed by Jon Bell, who contributed to the successful television series exploring Aboriginal issues, Redfern Now and Cleverman.
The film’s central character, Sarah (Sebbens – a strong screen presence) if offered a promotion at work. Sarah is married to a genial husband, Fergus (Wyatt), and is pregnant with their second child.
Sarah is a sophisticated, anti-superstition, urban businesswoman who is reluctant to connect with her Indigenous heritage.
After a particularly difficult birth, Sarah’s new child is born. Sarah’s birth mother, Ruth (Rose), makes contact and wants to protect her from the influence of the Moogai.
As expected, the film veers into the eerie atmosphere with a violent climax.
Review by Fr Peter Malone MSC, Jesuit Media
The Moogai: Starring Shari Sebbens, Meyne Wyatt, Tessa Rose, Bella Heathcote, Clarence Ryan, Jahdeana Mary, Toby Leonard Moore. Directed by Jon Bell. 86 minutes. Rated M (Mature themes and coarse language)
FULL STORY
The Moogai (Australian Catholics)
