Family's Chilling Encounter with a Yowie in 1988's 'Spook' - Review

Posted Friday, January 19, 2024

By Squatchable.com staff

If you're a fan of horror movies and cryptids, then you're in luck. A video from the YouTube channel Creature Movie Reviews takes a deep dive into the 1988 Australian film "Spook," which some consider to be the first Australian Yowie movie. The movie follows the Bradley family, who head out into the woods for a camping trip. As with many horror movies, things quickly take a turn for the worse. The family encounters a perverted gas station attendant, a creepy bar, and a local who warns them not to venture up Mars Road. But, as you might expect, they don't heed the warning and continue on their journey. Once they arrive at their cabin, the family realizes that it's in need of some serious repairs. While the kids explore the nearby creek, the parents bicker and air their grievances. As the night sets in, the family begins to experience strange occurrences, including a knock at the door from the local ranger, who advises them to leave. The movie takes an interesting turn when it's revealed that the family is on the brink of divorce. The father, Simon, is a wealthy architect who married for money, while his wife, Carol, feels suffocated by their relationship. The family's dynamic adds an extra layer of tension to the already eerie atmosphere. As the movie progresses, the family is attacked by birds, the perverted gas station attendant meets a grisly end, and the Yowie finally makes an appearance. The movie's climax involves the family fighting off the Yowie with a makeshift torch and a gun, which ultimately jams. The reviewer from Creature Movie Reviews gives "Spook" a rating of 2.5 out of 4 peeping Toms. While the movie's plot isn't particularly unique, the reviewer praises the acting and the Yowie costume. One interesting bit from the review is the mention of the Yowie, a cryptid from Australian folklore. Similar to Bigfoot or Sasquatch, the Yowie is described as a large, hairy, ape-like creature that roams the Australian wilderness. While there have been numerous sightings and reports of the Yowie, there is still no concrete evidence of its existence. Overall, "Spook" is an entertaining horror movie that adds an interesting twist to the classic Bigfoot mythology. If you're looking for a new cryptid movie to watch, "Spook" is definitely worth checking out. And, who knows, maybe it will inspire you to go on your own Yowie-hunting adventure.