After the death of her abusive father, Grace returns to her rural Australian hometown to search for her missing brother, David. Guided by a former teacher, Mr. Green, she ventures into the wilderness, hoping to locate a remote commune where David may have sought refuge. As Grace delves deeper into the forest, she encounters unsettling events and begins to question the true nature of her surroundings and the people she meets. The journey unfolds as a psychological and supernatural ordeal, blending folk horror with themes of trauma, isolation, and survival. (rogerebert.com)


Movie Details & Credits

AspectDetail
TitleThe Banished
Original TitleBaal
Year2024
GenreFolk Horror / Psychological Thriller
Runtime96 minutes
LanguageEnglish
CountryAustralia
Director / Writer / ProducerJoseph Sims-Dennett
ProducersAaron Bush, Barbara Ings, Raphael Sikic
CastMeg Eloise-Clarke (Grace), Leighton Cardno (Mr. Green), Gautier Pavlovic-Hobba (David), Tony Hughes (Uncle Rex), Diane Smith (Mother)
Production CompaniesSterling Cinema, Buff Dubs
DistributorBrainstorm Media
Release / PremiereJuly 18, 2025 (U.S. Theatrical & Digital)
Where to WatchApple TV

Critical Reception

  • Praised for atmospheric tension and effective use of the Australian outback to enhance horror.
  • Critics note the abstract narrative and slower pacing may not appeal to all audiences. (theguardian.com)