Australia is currently riding a wave of horror success, with recent hits such as Talk To Me, The Babadook and Bring Her Back proving that the land down under has become a global hotspot for spine‑tingling cinema. As 2026 passes its midpoint, a new homegrown shocker arrives courtesy of first‑time feature director Adrian Chiarella. In Leviticus, religion—a staple of the horror genre—becomes a vehicle to explore the traumatic practice of conversion therapy and the psychological horror that unfolds when family turns against those they claim to love. The film is brutal, moving, and hits painfully close to home for anyone who has experienced the real‑world terror of suppressing one’s identity.
Synopsis
Set in a dusty, rural town on the edge of South Australia’s outback, Leviticus centers on the local evangelical church—a modern equivalent of the famed Hillsong or Planet Shakers congregations. Two teenagers, Naim (played by Joe Bird) and Ryan (Stacy Clausen), share a secret afternoon in an abandoned barn, allowing their barriers to fall as they give in to mutual attraction. Aware that their feelings could spark scandal in a conservative community, they attempt to keep their romance hidden. When their parents sense something amiss, they summon a preacher to administer conversion therapy—a ritual intended to “cure” them. During the dangerous session, a demonic force is unleashed, taking the shape of the very person each teen is drawn to. The result is a relentless game of suspicion: every time the boys appear on screen, viewers are left guessing whether they are the genuine article or a manifestation of the demon out to destroy them.
The narrative unflinchingly tackles homophobia and the deadly attitudes that surround it, portraying a world where some adults view eradication of queer desire as the only acceptable solution.
Performances
Leading the cast, Joe Bird delivers a stoic, emotionally charged performance, building on the momentum from his role in 2022’s Talk To Me. His chemistry with Stacy Clausen is palpable; the rapid evolution from tender affection to palpable terror feels both authentic and heartbreaking. Their ability to convey suspicion without a hint of certainty keeps the audience on edge throughout the film.
Mia Wasikowska portrays Naim’s mother with a masterful blend of cool composure and concealed concern. Her nuanced acting allows love and fear to seep through the screen, even when her character remains outwardly calm. The ensemble’s collective effort amplifies the film’s core message: the horror of forced conversion is as much about the family’s internal struggle as it is about the supernatural manifestations.
Behind the Lens
Adrian Chiarella’s directorial debut is a bold statement. By anchoring the story in the real‑world issue of conversion therapy, he elevates the film beyond a conventional monster feature. While Leviticus retains classic horror atmosphere—ominous framing, lingering dread—it also functions as a poignant love story that celebrates the joy of first‑time romance amid oppressive small‑town gossip.
Chiarella’s “less is more” approach avoids cheap jump scares and gore, instead relying on an ever‑present sense of impending doom. The remote, tight‑knit community setting becomes a character in itself, emphasizing how gossip and moral judgment can suffocate those who are different. The director also invites broader interpretation: anyone who has ever felt “othered” or confused about their identity will find a resonant theme in the film’s exploration of self‑acceptance versus imposed conformity.
Final Verdict
Leviticus is a breathtaking, eerie ode to queer survival in an era where being part of the LGBTQ community can feel increasingly perilous. Chiarella masterfully reclaims the horror genre to expose the psychological violence of conversion therapy while delivering a compelling, emotionally charged narrative. With standout performances, thoughtful direction, and a willingness to confront uncomfortable truths, this film stands out as a must‑see on the big screen.
Leviticus opens in cinemas June 19.
