
LEVITICUS
Starring: Joe Bird, Stacy Clausen, Jeremy Blewitt, Ewen Leslie, Davida McKenzie, Tyallah Bullock, and Mia Wasikowska
Director: Adrian Chiarella

ROBERT
Not that it wasn’t always a trope, but it seems like the “unnamed evil entity” has become as synonymous with modern horror as the monkey’s paw. So, standing out amongst the throngs is paramount, and Leviticus does an admirable job with our enemy fighting people over concerns of sexual identity in the face of unyielding religious beliefs. The core partnership of Joe Bird’s Naim and Stacy Clausen’s Ryan is the driving force, along with the bait-and-switches between the characters and the entity impersonating them. It reminded me of It Follows with more of a coming-of-age vibe. Add another Australian thing that could kill you.

PAIGE
Leviticus is a queer horror film that is not only terrifying but also heartbreaking. While its elevated premise and themes could have been more fleshed out, this is a strong debut from writer/director Adrian Chiarella. What makes the film so effective is the vulnerability and pain that is on display here. Our two leads played by Joe Bird and Stacy Clausen deliver commanding performances that not only ground the story but also make the horror feel even more impactful. Ultimately, the true horror in this film is religious repression.
