‘The Banished’ Movie Review: Joseph Sims-Dennett Creates Immersive And Enigmatic Australian Thriller

The Banished exists as a horror-thriller narrative that will not be for every cinephile. If you are looking for an abstract and meticulously crafted tale, however, this Australian puzzle box is a worthy watch. Although CinemAddicts co-host Eric Holmes and have vastly different opinions, we did spend a healthy chunk of time reviewing The Banished.

Written and directed by Joseph Sims-Dennett, The Banished centers on Grace (Meg Eloise-Clarke), a young woman who heads to the wilderness to find her missing brother. Her journey leads into a terrifying world that may connect her back to past tragedies and an ultimate reckoning.

Running at 96 minutes, the movie co-stars Leighton Cardno as Grace’s former teacher Mr. Green. He initially helps Grace venture out into the woods, but due to circumstance she ultimately must face her fears in seeming solitude. Rounding out the ensemble are Gautier Pavlovic-Hobba, Tony Hughes, and Diane Smith.

There are no easy answers in The Banished, and viewers might be disappointed that the final act leaves it up to personal perception. I was all in with this movie, and a big strength lies in Eloise-Clarke’s gutsy performance. Grace is put through the ringer in The Banished, and the actress is absolutely believable.

Check out our reviews of The Banished on this week’s CinemAddicts podcast or check out our video version:

The Banished is now playing in theaters and is available on Digital and On Demand. Rent/purchase the film on Amazon or use our SiteStripe to support CinemAddicts (we receive a slight commission). Thanks for your support!

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