The Killing Ground movie is a 2017 Australian survival horror-thriller directed by Damien Power. The film follows a couple on a camping trip who discover a deserted campsite and a lone toddler, leading them into a terrifying confrontation with two local predators.
Some horror films don’t just scare you—they genuinely unsettle you, leaving a lasting impression long after the credits roll. Australian horror has a knack for this, often delivering a raw, uncompromising brutality that other films shy away from. Today, we’re diving into one such unsettling experience: Killing Ground (2017). This is not your typical slasher. It’s an unflinching, visceral journey that transforms an idyllic camping trip into a living nightmare.
If you’ve heard about the sheer tension and shocking realism of the Killing Ground movie, the rumors are true. This review on IWatchMovies Blog unpacks every nerve-wracking moment, from its deceptively tranquil opening to its brutal and controversial ending. We’ll explore the harrowing plot, introduce the characters caught in this horrific ordeal, and tell you where you can stream or rent this intense film. Be warned: this movie is not for the faint of heart. But if you’re ready for a genuinely terrifying look at human depravity, read on to find out if Killing Ground is worth adding to your watch list.
What is the Killing Ground Movie About?
A Deceptive Start: The Camping Trip
The Killing Ground movie initially lulls viewers into a false sense of security, introducing us to a young couple, Ian (Stephen Hunter) and Sam (Harriet Dyer).
They embark on a romantic New Year’s camping trip to a remote and picturesque stretch of the Australian bush. The setting is beautiful and feels incredibly serene.
Initially, their biggest concerns are pitching a tent and enjoying each other’s company in the peaceful atmosphere. This calm beginning, however, is a stark contrast to the horror that awaits them. The film expertly builds a tranquil facade to prepare the audience for a significant shift in tone.
The Discovery at the ‘Killing Ground’
Their idyllic retreat shatters when Ian and Sam discover a seemingly deserted campsite nearby. A child’s shoe sits ominously by a tent, and a cold campfire suggests a recent but hasty departure.
The situation escalates when they find a distressed infant alone in the bush, a discovery that confirms something is terribly wrong. They also find a hidden camcorder containing chilling footage, and their pleasant trip quickly devolves into a desperate situation. This location soon earns its chilling moniker, the ‘Killing Ground’.
A non-linear timeline of Terror
The Killing Ground movie employs a clever narrative device, utilizing a non-linear timeline. This storytelling choice significantly amps up the tension by cutting between two distinct periods.
One timeline follows Ian and Sam’s current terrifying discoveries, while the other reveals the horrific events that befell the family who camped there before them: Rob (Aaron Pedersen), Margaret (Maya Stange), and their children, Emily and Ollie.
The movie also introduces the terrifying antagonists, two local men named German (Aaron Glenane) and Chook (Ian Meadows), who are responsible for the tragedy. This dual-timeline structure builds suspense by showing snippets of what happened while keeping the full picture obscured. As viewers are forced to piece together the brutal puzzle, this narrative approach makes the horror more palpable and creates an oppressive sense of dread.
What happens in the movie Killing Ground?
Plot Summary (Spoilers Ahead)
Alright, cinephiles, let’s dive into the harrowing events of the Killing Ground movie. Be warned, we’re entering spoiler territory. If you haven’t seen the film, you may want to bookmark this for later. Not for the faint of heart, the film unfolds with a chilling dual narrative that creates incredible tension.
The story follows Ian and his pregnant girlfriend, Sam, as they embark on a romantic New Year’s camping trip. Their chosen spot, a secluded beach in the Australian wilderness, seems idyllic at first. However, their peaceful getaway quickly takes a dark turn.
Upon arrival, they discover an abandoned campsite with a single orange tent and a car, but no sign of its occupants, creating an immediately unsettling atmosphere. Their unease intensifies when they find a lost toddler, Ollie, wandering alone nearby.
The film then skillfully weaves in a parallel timeline, using flashbacks to reveal the fate of the family from the abandoned campsite. In these flashbacks, we meet Rob and Margaret and their teenage daughter, Emily. We learn that just days before Ian and Sam’s arrival, the family was brutally attacked by two local men, German and Chook. The movie unflinchingly shows the family’s ordeal, from their capture and torture to their eventual murders.
As Ian and Sam piece together what happened, they realize the campsite is a crime scene and that the two sadistic perpetrators, German and Chook, are still lurking nearby. A desperate fight for survival ensues, during which Sam shows incredible resilience and resourcefulness.
The Main Characters and Their Fates
The Killing Ground movie features a small but impactful cast whose roles and ultimate fates drive the film’s brutal narrative. Here are the main characters and what happens to them:
- Sam (Harriet Dyer): Ian’s pregnant girlfriend, Sam is initially more cautious than her partner. Her remarkable resilience and fierce will to live allow her to develop into the film’s primary survivor, and she ultimately escapes the nightmare.
- Ian (Ian Meadows): Sam’s partner, Ian, tries to be the protector but is often hesitant. While well-meaning, his decisions sometimes worsen their perilous situation, leading to his tragic and violent death at the hands of the villains.
- German (Aaron Pedersen): As the older and more dominant of the two antagonists, German is a cold, calculating, and remorseless killer. After he commits unspeakable acts of violence, Sam eventually kills him in a desperate struggle.
- Chook (Damian de Montemas): German’s younger and more unstable accomplice, Chook is less assertive but equally dangerous. He participates in the atrocities and is ultimately killed by Sam.
- Rob (Julian Garner): The father of the first family, Rob tries to protect his wife and daughter, but his efforts are futile against German and Chook. He is murdered early in the film’s timeline.
- Margaret (Maya Stange): Rob’s wife and Emily’s mother, Margaret, endures horrific abuse before being murdered by the antagonists.
- Emily (Tiarnie Coupland): Rob and Margaret’s teenage daughter, Emily, suffers a particularly cruel fate as a victim of the villains’ sadism.
- Ollie: The young toddler found by Ian and Sam, Ollie is the sole survivor of the first family. His innocence stands in stark contrast to the villains’ depravity, and Sam ultimately rescues him.
The Brutal and Controversial Ending Explained
The ending of Killing Ground is unflinching, unsettling, and designed to leave a lasting impression. After a relentless and tense struggle, Sam manages to overpower and kill both German and Chook in desperate acts of self-defense, highlighting her sheer will to survive.
After rescuing the traumatized toddler, Ollie, Sam carries him away from the “killing ground.” As the only survivors, their ordeal concludes not with triumph but with palpable trauma. The final scenes show a shaken and injured Sam driving away with Ollie, leaving the audience with a profound sense of psychological damage.
The ending is controversial for several reasons. Firstly, its sheer brutality is hard to stomach. The film offers little relief from the grim fates of most characters, instead adhering to a starkly realistic depiction of violence that makes it a difficult watch for many [source: https://www.slantmagazine.com/film/killing-ground-2017/].
Secondly, the film’s handling of sexual violence is a point of contention. While the horrific acts inflicted upon Emily and Margaret are not shown explicitly, they are strongly implied. Critics and viewers debate the necessity of this depiction, and though the film aims for realism over exploitation, its impact is nonetheless disturbing.
Finally, the ending’s unrelenting bleakness contributes to its controversial status. Sam and Ollie survive, but they are irrevocably scarred. Instead of a triumphant resolution, the film concludes with shattered innocence and lasting trauma, forcing viewers to confront humanity’s dark side. This makes the Killing Ground movie an unforgettable, albeit disturbing, cinematic experience.
Meet the Killing Ground Cast
The Couple: Ian and Sam
The Killing Ground movie introduces viewers to Ian and Sam, an urban couple seeking a peaceful, romantic camping trip. Their idyllic getaway, however, sets the stage for the unfolding horror.
Ian (Aaron Pedersen [1]) is initially a confident, modern man who becomes overwhelmed by the situation. His struggle to protect Sam drives the narrative while testing his moral boundaries.
Sam (Harriet Dyer [2]), the more cautious heart of the relationship, shows incredible resilience in the face of unimaginable terror. Their dynamic powerfully showcases the crushing weight of survival.
The couple’s initial optimism quickly transforms into desperation as their trip descends into a nightmare. This harrowing experience anchors the emotional core of the Killing Ground movie.
The Villains: German and Chook
The architects of dread in the Killing Ground movie are German and Chook, two antagonists who embody a chilling, primal evil. They turn the serene Australian bush into their personal hunting ground.
German (Damian de Montemas [3]) is the calculating and dominant figure of the pair. His cold demeanor and brutal efficiency make him particularly terrifying as he orchestrates much of the film’s horrific violence.
German’s younger, more volatile accomplice is Chook (Tiarnie Coupland [4]). Chook’s erratic behavior adds an unpredictable element to their cruelty; though easily manipulated, he is capable of extreme acts. This twisted partnership fuels the film’s unrelenting tension.
Operating with a disturbing lack of remorse, the villains’ actions drive the film’s unflinching look at human depravity. By transforming a family’s holiday into a fight for life, they become unforgettable figures in Australian horror cinema.
Where Can You Watch Killing Ground?
Is Killing Ground on Netflix?
A common question from movie fans is whether Killing Ground is available on Netflix. In most regions, the answer is no. While the 2017 film has appeared on the platform intermittently, it doesn’t have a permanent home there due to regional licensing agreements. Because streaming rights change frequently, it’s always best to check the Netflix library in your specific country.
Current Streaming and Rental Options
Fortunately, even if the film isn’t on Netflix, there are several other ways to watch this intense Aussie horror movie. You can typically find Killing Ground on various video-on-demand (VOD) services for rental or digital purchase.
Common platforms where Killing Ground is often available include:
- Amazon Prime Video: Available for rent or purchase.
- Apple TV (iTunes): Available for rent or purchase.
- Google Play Movies & TV: Available for rent or purchase.
- YouTube Movies: Available for rent or purchase.
- Vudu: This dedicated VOD service often has the film available.
- Shudder: The horror-centric streaming service has featured Killing Ground in some regions. Check their library for current availability in your area [5].
Please note that availability on these platforms can change over time and may vary by location. Since streaming rights often shift, it’s a good idea to perform a quick search on your preferred service to confirm its current status before you watch.
Is Killing Ground Worth Watching? A Critical Review
Strengths: Unrelenting Tension and Realism
Killing Ground truly excels at building an almost unbearable sense of dread. From its tranquil opening, the film quickly establishes a chilling atmosphere as director Damien Power masterfully employs a slow-burn approach, letting the horror unfold organically to keep viewers on edge.
Furthermore, the film’s realism is one of its most striking features, eschewing jump scares for genuine, character-driven terror. The violence feels raw and impactful—never gratuitous, but always serving the narrative. Viewers feel the palpable vulnerability of Ian and Sam and their desperate fight for survival, a grounded approach that makes the experience profoundly unsettling.
The remote Australian bush setting is also crucial, enhancing the feeling of isolation by serving as an additional antagonist. With no escape and no help nearby, this natural environment amplifies the characters’ helplessness. Stellar performances from the main cast, who bring a believable intensity to their roles, further anchor the film in a stark reality.
Weaknesses: Not for the Faint of Heart
While its realism is a strength, it’s also Killing Ground’s most significant caveat. The film is genuinely brutal, unflinchingly portraying acts of violence and degradation that make it unsuitable for all audiences. Viewers sensitive to graphic content should proceed with extreme caution.
Delving into dark themes, the film explores the depths of human cruelty through scenes designed to shock and disturb. These images linger long after the credits roll, and for some, the unrelenting bleakness might be overwhelming. It’s a difficult watch with a substantial emotional toll, making it a polarizing experience.
Additionally, the slow pace, while effective for building tension, might not appeal to everyone, particularly fans of fast-paced slashers who may find it too deliberate. This pacing is essential, however, as it allows the horror to seep in slowly. Ultimately, the film’s uncompromising nature is both a strength and a potential deterrent, depending entirely on an individual’s tolerance.
Final Verdict and Audience Score
So, is Killing Ground worth watching? Absolutely—if you are prepared for its intensity. As a masterful piece of Australian horror, it delivers a visceral, gut-wrenching experience that offers more than just scares. The film forces viewers to confront uncomfortable realities, making it a challenging but rewarding watch for those who can handle it.
We recommend Killing Ground primarily to:
- Fans of realistic, survival-based horror.
- Viewers who appreciate psychological tension over jump scares.
- Those looking for a truly impactful and memorable thriller.
However, we suggest skipping it if you prefer lighter horror or shy away from graphic content. It’s a powerful film that leaves a lasting impression and should be considered a must-watch for serious horror aficionados. Indeed, many critics have lauded its effectiveness, with aggregate scores often reflecting high praise for its execution [6].
If you’re looking for other intense, survival-focused thrillers, consider these:
| Movie Title | Year | Similar Themes |
|---|---|---|
| Eden Lake | 2008 | Couple terrorized in remote location |
| Wolf Creek | 2005 | Australian outback horror, serial killers |
| The Strangers | 2008 | Home invasion, psychological dread |
Frequently Asked Questions About the Killing Ground Movie
What happened to the baby in the killing ground?
In the movie Killing Ground, the baby is named Emily, and her fate is one of the film’s most disturbing elements.
- Emily is the infant daughter of Margaret and Rob, the family initially targeted by the villains.
- Tragically, Emily does not survive the horrifying ordeal in the Australian bush.
- She is murdered by German, one of the two antagonists, in a brutal act that occurs early in the narrative [7].
- This shocking event immediately establishes the movie’s uncompromisingly dark tone and underscores the perpetrators’ extreme ruthlessness.
What happened to Emily in Killing Ground?
As the youngest victim in the film, Emily‘s death is a pivotal and heartbreaking event that directly impacts the other protagonists.
- German, the more vicious of the two criminals, murders Emily.
- This horrific act occurs before the main protagonists, Ian and Sam, even arrive at the remote campsite.
- Consequently, her body is one of the first gruesome discoveries Ian and Sam make, plunging them into the nightmare.
- Her death acts as a clear signal of the villains’ cruelty and the life-threatening danger present at the ‘killing ground’.
Does Ollie survive in Killing Ground?
Ollie, the teenage son of Margaret and Rob, is another victim of the killers German and Chook. He does not survive the ordeal.
- He is held captive with his mother, Margaret, during an extended period of torment.
- To psychologically torture Margaret, German executes Ollie in front of her [8].
- This brutal murder demonstrates the villains’ escalating violence and complete disregard for human life.
- His death is part of the relentless terror at the campsite, confirming the extreme stakes for everyone involved.
Sources
- https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0670077/
- https://www.imdb.com/name/nm3973215/
- https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0210214/
- https://www.imdb.com/name/nm5449226/
- https://www.shudder.com/
- https://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/killing_ground
- https://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/killing_ground/
- https://www.imdb.com/title/tt4573896/plotsummary
