This Australian horror film, “Leviticus,” might just be the most romantic offering of the season.
The title makes no direct allusion to the Book of Leviticus, yet it taps into themes that resonate deeply, particularly for LGBTQ+ audiences who may be more familiar with its contents than many Christians. While the book condemns male homosexuality, the film draws inspiration from its more extreme prescriptions for punishment for various transgressions, including blasphemy and idol worship.
In this chilling narrative, which echoes the haunting themes of “Heavenly Creatures” and “It Follows,” the film explores the traumatic realities of gay conversion therapy, presenting it with an unexpected romantic depth. Amid a summer filled with poignant horror films, this work stands out for its unique contributions to both genres.
Joe Bird portrays Naim, a frail high school student who has relocated with his recently widowed mother, played by Mia Wasikowska, to a grim industrial town in Australia. At the outset, Naim is involved with Ryan, a popular athlete (Stacy Clausen), but their relationship takes a dark turn when Naim sees Ryan kissing Hunter (Jeremy Blewitt), the son of a local fundamentalist preacher (Ewen Leslie). In retaliation, Naim reports the two boys, prompting a sinister clergyman (Nicholas Hope) to conduct a purification ritual. What begins as a farce quickly devolves into horror as both boys suffer violent convulsions during the ceremony.
Jessica (Shannon Berry), a lesbian who has previously endured the same ritual, provides crucial context as she warns Naim about the monster that preys on isolated individuals. This entity, reminiscent of the demon in “It Follows,” can become anyone, adding a layer of tension to every interaction between Naim and Ryan. The atmosphere is thick with anxiety, as viewers are left unsure if a moment of intimacy will turn deadly.
The film effectively conveys feelings of guilt and internalized homophobia. Naim, horrified by his role in the events that unfold, witnesses the brutal aftermath when the invisible force kills Hunter. The tragedy leaves Hunter’s father devastated, leading him to abandon his faith, while Naim’s mother shows no remorse, instead subjecting her son to the same ritual, believing fear is necessary for survival. Meanwhile, their claims of the supernatural are dismissed by those around them, who view them as problems rather than victims.
Marking his feature debut, Adrian Chiarella, a filmmaker from Melbourne with Chinese and Italian heritage, demonstrates both visual flair and storytelling expertise. A standout scene occurs at a public swimming pool, where the attack on Jessica’s girlfriend (Tyallah Bullock) is concealed from view, cleverly echoing a later sequence where Naim faces the demon disguised as Ryan.
The film’s demon serves as a potent metaphor for the insidious nature of gay conversion therapy, particularly relevant during Pride Month, as various governments promote this harmful practice under the guise of religious freedom. The film concludes with a shot that resonates with hope, akin to the ending of “It Follows.” Despite the trauma represented by the monster, the couples in “Leviticus” strive for happiness, suggesting that they will continue to confront their pasts, embodying the resilience that defines the horror genre.
Leviticus
Starring Joe Bird and Stacy Clausen. Written and directed by Adrian Chiarella. Rated R.
