Leviticus is less a horror film than a painful story about forbidden love

Leviticus is not a horror film in the traditional sense, but rather a poignant tale of forbidden love, according to director Adrian Chiarella. The film, set in a remote, religious town in Australia, revolves around two teenage boys, Naim and Ryan, who are drawn to each other despite the disapproval of their conservative community.

The plot takes a supernatural turn when Naim outcasts Ryan's pastor's son, who then curses the two boys with a monster-like curse. This curse transforms their attraction into a terrifying entity whenever they succumb to their desires.

With a Metacritic score of 83, the film has received mixed reviews from American critics, suggesting it may not fully justify its hype. Nevertheless, it is an impressive and haunting debut for Chiarella, showcasing his talent as a filmmaker. The story of Naim and Ryan resonates deeply, as they grapple with the trauma of repression and the alienation of growing up in a restrictive environment. Their love story is a sensitive and painful exploration of what happens when desire is deemed forbidden and must be denied.

While the film occasionally feels overly didactic in its allegorical horror, the performances by Joe Bird and Stacey Clausen are truly compelling. Their anguished portrayals of the two young lovers capture the torment and haunting nature of their love, which is both tormented and all-consuming. Chiarella's influences, ranging from Asian filmmakers to American horror classics, are evident in the film's unique blend of queer horror and Gothic tradition.

Ultimately, Leviticus is a powerful and haunting love story that deserves to be seen for its emotional depth and thought-provoking themes.