The Moogai
Samara Weaving in Azrael. Photo by Elise Lockwood
Here’s one for horror fans looking to go beyond jump scares: The Moogai dives deep into the realm of psychological horror through the lens of Australian Indigenous mythology, bringing a fresh and culturally rich narrative to the genre. The film tells the story of an Aboriginal couple experiencing a disturbing haunting after the birth of their second child. What starts as a time of family joy quickly spirals into terror as the mother becomes haunted by visions of a malevolent spirit determined to take her baby. Director Jon Bell crafts an atmosphere that's thick with dread, connecting viewers not only to the supernatural but also to the real, haunting elements of Australian history and the Indigenous experience.
This premise is unique in the horror landscape, where Indigenous perspectives have long been underrepresented. The Moogai manages to blend an unnerving supernatural plot with a deeply symbolic exploration of the Indigenous experience, all while tackling the psychological toll of post-partum struggles. This thematic richness makes it more than just a horror film; it’s a commentary on cultural trauma, underscored by Australia’s dark history.
An Allegory That Strikes, But Sometimes Misses
The Moogai uses the supernatural as a vessel for larger themes, particularly the trauma associated with the Stolen Generations and the systemic racism that permeates Australian history. It’s a striking allegory - one that’s made even more potent by its embodiment in the titular monster, the Moogai, which serves as a sinister reminder of what was forcibly taken from Indigenous families for generations.
Samara Weaving in Azrael. Photo by Elise Lockwood
While the film’s intent to intertwine cultural commentary with horror is commendable, there are times when the symbolism overshadows the horror. The allegory, while powerful, becomes somewhat heavy-handed in places, detracting from the overall impact. At times, it feels like the film is telling viewers what to feel rather than allowing the horror to speak for itself. This approach makes certain scenes feel more like a lecture than a scare, which may disrupt the film’s pacing and immersion for some viewers.
Crafting the Horror, Missing Some Emotional Impact
Despite its strong themes, The Moogai falls a little short of evoking the emotional depth achieved by similar films, such as Rabbit Proof Fence. While it’s crafted with impressive technical skill and an unmistakable sense of atmosphere, the emotional connection with its characters doesn’t quite reach the same level. The mother’s torment is gripping, but her journey through the haunting remains somewhat distant, which can lessen the viewer’s empathy for her ordeal.
Nevertheless, The Moogai achieves a rare feat by mixing Indigenous cultural horror with psychological struggles, something seldom seen in mainstream horror films. Its strengths lie in its willingness to tackle Indigenous issues head-on, even if its delivery is sometimes a bit unbalanced.
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