Killing Ground (2017)

Killing Ground is an Australian survival horror film released in 2017, written and directed by Damien Power. Set in the wilderness, the film explores the primal fear of unnamed evil and cruelty that exists in the real world, without the need for supernatural elements.

The story begins when a young couple, Sam and Ian, decide to go camping on New Year's Eve in a deserted forest, where they hope to have a quiet and romantic vacation. However, they quickly discover an abandoned tent with no sign of the owner. That mystery gradually reveals a horrifying tragedy when they realize they are being followed by two cold-blooded killers — German and Chook — dangerous criminals who are lurking in the forest and do not hesitate to kill to satisfy their cruel instincts.

Killing Ground's unique feature is its non-linear storytelling. The film not only focuses on Sam and Ian but also interweaves the story of another family – Margaret, Rob and their young son Ollie – who arrived at the campsite earlier and became victims of the killers. The two parallel timelines are cleverly interwoven, creating extreme suspense and tension as viewers gradually understand what happened.

Unlike many other horror films that rely on blood or jumpscare, Killing Ground builds fear through the suffocating atmosphere, tension and the feeling of helplessness of the main characters when they are pushed to the edge. The genuine acting of Harriet Dyer and Ian Meadows helps to portray the panic and determination to survive in harsh circumstances. In addition, the villainous duo played by Aaron Pedersen and Aaron Glenane really makes the audience shiver with their coldness and inhumanity.

Killing Ground is not just a regular horror film, but also a warning about the fragility of life and the brutality that can exist anywhere, even on seemingly harmless vacations. The film leaves a strong impression of survival instinct, courage and despair that people can experience in dangerous situations. This is a work worth watching for those who love the genre of psychological horror and survival.