Arabic version: فيلم أسترالي ليفيتيكوس يعيد تعريف السرديات المثلية في نوع الرعب
The Australian horror film “Leviticus” is making waves by transforming traditional narratives around queerness. Directed by Adrian Chiarella, the film explores the intersection of fear and homophobia, presenting a unique take on queer romance within the horror genre. According to SBS News, the film sparked a bidding war at the Sundance Film Festival and is now preparing for international release.
“Leviticus” follows 17-year-old Naim, portrayed by Joe Bird, whose life changes dramatically after he kisses schoolmate Ryan. Their relationship takes a dark turn when they encounter a conversion therapy preacher, leading to a haunting by a demon that embodies their desires. Chiarella aimed to address modern homophobia through this horror lens, moving away from conventional portrayals that often perpetuate negative stereotypes.
The film’s premise highlights the inversion of typical horror tropes, suggesting that the true monster is not queerness itself, but rather the societal homophobia that many LGBTQ+ individuals face. Chiarella’s personal experiences, particularly his time at an all-boys religious school, informed the film’s darker scenes, which reflect real-world homophobia without the veil of supernatural elements.
“Leviticus” is part of a broader trend of Australian horror films gaining international recognition. With the support of Causeway Films, a company known for backing innovative Australian filmmakers, Chiarella’s work joins a roster of films that resonate with global audiences. Producer Samantha Jennings notes that Australian horror often reflects deeper societal issues, making it a compelling genre for international distribution.
As anticipation builds for “Leviticus,” concerns about the portrayal of queer characters remain prevalent among audiences. Chiarella is conscious of the ‘bury your gays’ trope and aims to provide a narrative that diverges from tragic endings, emphasizing the importance of love stories in horror films. The film promises to be both a chilling horror experience and a heartfelt exploration of queer love.
