A Chilling New Voice in Queer Cinema
Get ready to add a new must-see to your watchlist. A thrilling Australian queer horror film, Leviticus, has just sent shivers down the spines of attendees at the prestigious Sundance Film Festival, quickly becoming one of the most talked-about films of the event. In the first major deal of the festival, the film's worldwide rights were snapped up by Neon, the acclaimed distributor behind modern classics like Parasite and the unforgettable queer romance Portrait of a Lady on Fire.
Desire as the Monster
Directed by debut filmmaker Adrian Chiarella, Leviticus offers a terrifying and poignant premise. The story follows two teenage boys who find themselves hunted by a violent, supernatural entity. The twist? This monster takes the form of the person they desire most: each other. It's a powerful metaphor for the often-frightening journey of discovering queer identity, where attraction can feel both exhilarating and dangerous.
The film's title itself is a bold and provocative choice. Leviticus is, of course, the book in the Old Testament containing verses that have been historically used to condemn homosexuality and inflict immense harm on the LGBTQ+ community. By naming the film after this text, Chiarella seems to be directly confronting religious trauma and reclaiming the narrative, turning a source of fear into a canvas for a queer horror story.
From the Minds Behind 'Talk To Me'
If you're a horror fan, you'll be excited to know that Leviticus comes from the same producers as the 2023 breakout hit Talk To Me. Samantha Jennings and Kristina Ceyton of Causeway Films have a proven track record for delivering smart, terrifying, and successful horror. The film stars a talented cast including Joe Bird, Stacy Clausen, and the always-brilliant Mia Wasikowska.
The acquisition by Neon in a reported seven-figure deal is a massive vote of confidence. It not only ensures that Leviticus will get a proper theatrical release but also signals a strong industry belief in the power and commercial appeal of unapologetically queer stories.
Coming Soon to a Cinema Near You?
Neon is planning a theatrical release in the United States later this year and will handle international sales. While a specific release date for the Netherlands hasn't been announced yet, this global deal makes it highly likely we'll get to experience the terror and tension of Leviticus on the big screen. We'll be keeping our eyes peeled for updates!
