Why 'Picnic at Hanging Rock' Is Still Disturbing 50 Years Later

Peter Weir’s Picnic at Hanging Rock (1975) is one of the most haunting and mysterious films ever made. Set in 1900 Australia, the story follows a group of schoolgirls from Appleyard College who set out on a Valentine’s Day picnic at the enigmatic Hanging Rock — only for several of them, along with a teacher, to vanish without a trace. What begins as a sunny, idyllic outing quickly turns into an unsettling mystery that defies explanation.

Starring Rachel Roberts, Anne-Louise Lambert, Helen Morse, and Vivean Gray, this atmospheric classic combines breathtaking cinematography with an eerie, dreamlike tone, leaving audiences questioning what is real and what is imagined. Directed by Peter Weir (The Truman Show, Dead Poets Society), the film is celebrated for its hypnotic visuals, haunting pan flute score, and ambiguous storytelling that still sparks debate nearly 50 years later.

In this review, I'm joined by Alex and we explore why Picnic at Hanging Rock endures as one of Australia’s most iconic films, break down its mysterious themes, and discuss the performances and direction that make it unforgettable.

Connect with Alex:
Store: https://www.discogs.com/seller/keysto...
https://thecreepoff.com/
   / @thecreepoff  

Edited by the AMAZING Trucker Andy
   / @allapologiespodcast  
https://allapologiespodcast.com/

www.onceoverwithcayley.com

Want to see early content + popsicle reviews? Check out my Patreon:
  / onceoverwithcayley  

Connect with me on social media:
Instagram: @onceoverwithcayley
Letterboxd: @nevorpurify
Twitter: @onceovercayley

Intro/Outro Song: Nacho Overachiever by The Isotopes https://theisotopes.com/