The Moogai (2020)
A chilling short horror film rooted in Bundjalung mythology, where a ghost threatens a young family's newborn baby.
The Moogai - Movie Information
- Original Title: The Moogai
- Release Year: 2020
- Directed by: Jon Bell
- Type: Movie
- Genres: Horror
- Runtime: 15m
- Original Language: English
- Spoken Languages: English
- Production Companies: Causeway Films
- Production Countries: Australia
The Moogai - Plot
Moogai is Bundjalung for 'ghost', and it is precisely a moogai that intrudes on the quiet home life of Sarah, Fergus and their newborn baby.
The Moogai - Trailer
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The Moogai - Cast & Crew
Director(s)
- Jon Bell
Main Cast
- Shari Sebbens
- Meyne Wyatt
- Raven Roberts
- Precious Torrens
- Rick Randell
Writers
- Jon Bell
Producers
- Mitchell Stanley
- Taylor Goddard
- Kristina Ceyton
- Samantha Jennings
The Moogai - FAQs
What is The Moogai about?
The Moogai is a short horror film rooted in Bundjalung mythology. 'Moogai' means 'ghost' in the Bundjalung language, and the film follows a young family — Sarah, Fergus, and their newborn — whose peaceful home is disrupted by a terrifying supernatural presence with a chilling interest in their baby.
What does 'Moogai' mean in Bundjalung?
In the Bundjalung language of New South Wales, Australia, 'moogai' means 'ghost.' The film draws directly on this Indigenous Australian tradition, using the concept of a spirit that preys on newborns as the foundation for its horror. It's a rare and powerful use of authentic Aboriginal mythology in genre filmmaking.
Is The Moogai based on Aboriginal mythology?
Yes, The Moogai is deeply rooted in Aboriginal Australian mythology. Writer-director Jon Bell, himself of Indigenous heritage, draws on Bundjalung spiritual traditions — specifically the figure of a ghost that steals children — to craft a horror story that feels both culturally grounded and genuinely unsettling.
Who are the main actors in The Moogai?
The film stars Shari Sebbens as Sarah and Meyne Wyatt as Fergus, the couple at the heart of the story. Raven Roberts plays Jacob, Precious Torrens appears as a Little Girl, and Rick Randell rounds out the cast as a Service Station Attendant. Both leads are prominent Indigenous Australian actors.
Where can I watch The Moogai?
You can watch The Moogai for free on Kanopy and Hoopla — both great options if you have access through your local library. If you'd prefer to own or rent it, it's also available to buy or rent on the Apple TV Store. Check JustWatch for the most current availability in your region.
Who directed and wrote The Moogai?
Jon Bell both wrote and directed The Moogai. An Indigenous Australian filmmaker, Bell brings a deeply personal and culturally informed perspective to the project. The film was produced by Causeway Films — the same production company behind the acclaimed Australian horror Talk to Me — alongside producers Mitchell Stanley, Taylor Goddard, Kristina Ceyton, and Samantha Jennings.
How long is The Moogai?
The Moogai runs for just 15 minutes, making it a short film. Despite its brief runtime, it packs in a fully realized atmosphere, a compelling family dynamic, and genuine dread rooted in Aboriginal mythology. It's a tight, efficient piece of horror filmmaking that leaves a lasting impression.
What are similar movies to The Moogai?
If The Moogai left you wanting more, you might enjoy Talk to Me (2023) and Lake Mungo (2009) for their distinctly Australian horror sensibility. Bring Her Back (2025) and The Watchers (2024) also explore supernatural threats with strong atmosphere. For more folk-horror and creature-driven chills, Arcadian (2024) is well worth a look.
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