The Moogai (2025) is a psychological horror film written and directed by Jon Bell, expanding on his award-winning short film of the same name. Rooted in Indigenous Australian folklore, the movie tells a chilling and emotionally intense story about a young Aboriginal couple whose joy over their newborn child turns to dread when a sinister spirit appears to haunt the mother. As the lines blur between psychological trauma and supernatural horror, The Moogai explores themes of motherhood, cultural identity, and intergenerational trauma. Featuring powerful performances by Shari Sebbens and Meyne Wyatt, the film is a standout in the growing genre of Indigenous-led horror cinema.
Tittle: The Moogai
Director: Jon Bell
Writer: Jon Bell
Genres: Horror, Mystery, Thriller
Star: Shari Sebbens, Meyne Wyatt, Tessa Rose, Bella Heathcote, Clarence Ryan
Release Date: May 9, 2025
Original Languages: English
Country: Australia
Run Time: 1 hour 26 minutes
[1080p 720p 480p] Click Here
Official Trailer
Release Date
Storyline
Top Cast
Shari Sebbens as Sarah
-
Meyne Wyatt as Fergus
-
Tessa Rose as Ruth
-
Precious Ann as Agnes
-
Aisha Alma May as Young Ruth (credited as Aisha Alma)
-
Mary Bell as Mabel (credited as Mary Torrens Bell)
-
Akaylan Jon Lloyd as Little Joey
-
Luke Ford as White Man #1
-
Eden Falk as White Man #2
-
Bella Heathcote as Becky
-
Dane Carson as Sarah's Boss
-
Henry Nixon as Brett
-
Clarence Ryan as Ray Boy
-
Jahdeana Mary as Chloe
-
Toby Leonard Moore as Dr. Barnes
-
Kelly Anderson as Theatre Nurse #1
-
Fay Du Chateau as Theatre Nurse #2
-
Piran Stone as Baby Jacob
FAQs
Q1: What is The Moogai about?
A: The Moogai follows a young Aboriginal mother, Sarah, who believes a dark spirit is trying to take her newborn. As she spirals into fear and paranoia, her husband struggles to understand whether the threat is real or psychological.
Q2: Who directed The Moogai?
A: The film was directed and written by Jon Bell, who also created the original award-winning short film the feature is based on.
Q3: Is The Moogai based on true events or folklore?
A: The film draws from Indigenous Australian folklore, specifically a child-stealing spirit from Aboriginal mythology, exploring themes of intergenerational trauma and cultural identity.
Q4: When is the movie releasing?
A: The Moogai is scheduled for a limited theatrical release on May 9, 2025.
Q5: What is the runtime of The Moogai?
A: The movie runs for 1 hour and 26 minutes.
Q6: Who stars in the film?
A: The cast includes Shari Sebbens (Sarah), Meyne Wyatt (Fergus), Tessa Rose, Bella Heathcote, and Clarence Ryan, among others.
Q7: What are critics saying about the film?
A: Reviews are mixed. While critics praise its cultural themes and performances, some feel it doesn't fully deliver on its horror potential. It holds a 44% score on Rotten Tomatoes based on 34 reviews.
Q8: Will The Moogai be available on streaming platforms?
A: The film is being distributed by Samuel Goldwyn Films, and a streaming release is likely after its theatrical run. Specific platform details have not yet been confirmed.
Q9: What production companies are behind The Moogai?
A: It was produced by Causeway Films, Anahat Films, No Coincidence Media, Head Gear Films, and Salmira Productions.
Q10: Is this a remake or original film?
A: The Moogai is based on Jon Bell’s 2020 short film of the same name, which received critical acclaim and several awards before being developed into a full-length feature.