In the wilderness, every choice can mean the difference between love, survival, and unimaginable terror.
“Killing Ground” (2017) is an Australian survival thriller directed by Damien Power, delivering a raw and unsettling exploration of fear, violence, and survival. Set against the deceptively peaceful backdrop of the Australian wilderness, the film strips away the comfort of civilization and exposes the primal instincts that surface when ordinary people face extraordinary danger.
The story follows a young couple, Ian and Sam, who set out on a romantic camping trip, expecting nothing more than tranquility and a chance to enjoy each other’s company. However, their holiday takes a dark turn when they stumble upon an abandoned campsite with a tent already pitched but no one in sight. As they slowly piece together the disturbing clues left behind, they realize they have crossed paths with a nightmare they never could have imagined.
Damien Power masterfully builds tension by employing a non-linear narrative, weaving together the fates of the missing family and the unsuspecting couple. The film refuses to rely on cheap jump scares, instead using silence, stillness, and sudden bursts of violence to create an atmosphere that is both haunting and realistic. This approach makes “Killing Ground” stand apart from many other survival thrillers, grounding its terror in a reality that feels disturbingly possible.
The performances are crucial in elevating the sense of dread. Harriet Dyer and Ian Meadows bring a raw authenticity to their roles as ordinary people forced into extraordinary circumstances. Meanwhile, Aaron Pedersen and Aaron Glenane embody antagonists whose presence is as chilling as it is believable. Their unpredictability adds another layer of danger, reminding viewers that the most terrifying monsters often wear human faces.
Beyond its gripping suspense, “Killing Ground” serves as a commentary on vulnerability and survival in the modern world. It forces viewers to question what they might do when confronted with life-or-death decisions, and whether the instinct to protect loved ones can triumph over fear. By blending horror with human drama, the film leaves a lasting impression, making it more than just a thriller—it’s an examination of morality under pressure.
