Queer horror ‘Leviticus’ is scary in all the ways that leave a mark

It’s insidious, the horror that blankets “Leviticus,” the mesmerizing feature debut by Adrian Chiarella. But it’s not the deadly supernatural entity stalking the film’s starring gay couple that invokes the most chills, though it does supply plenty. Rather, it’s the sheer banality of everyday evil — of hate, of intolerance, of causal damnation — that will leave your skin crawling long after the credits rolls. 

“Leviticus,” which Chiarella also wrote, isn’t a particularly subtle takedown of homophobia and those who use Scripture to justify their hate. (The film’s title comes from the third book of the Old Testament.) But it is a scarily effective one. Set in an industrial and religious Australian town, the film follows two teenagers — Naim (Joe Bird) and Ryan (Stacy Clausen) — figuring out what they mean to each other. There’s a bit of flirting, a bit of wrestling, a bit of surprised making out. It’s sweet … until it isn’t.

Turns out, this isn’t the kind of place where gay relationships are tolerated. Once word gets out, a “deliverance healer” shows up, chanting about defiled souls and cleansing fires. Think conversion therapy, but even more horrifying and traumatic. 

But it’s not enough for Naim and Ryan to have to suffer though that; soon enough, they’re both being targeted by something that takes the face of what you desire most — which, for them, is each other. 

It’s an interesting premise: a tender, queer coming-of-age romance merged with shades of “It Follows.” And it works, thanks to the dazzling performances of Bird and Clausen, who remind us with aplomb that vulnerability — whether from desiring connection or running for your life — is scary. And Tyson Perkins’ whiplash cinematography and Jed Kurzel’s eerie score make the situation all the more nerve-wracking (even if the former is a little … blunt with the imagery). 

But the truly terrifying aspect in “Leviticus” comes from the more mundane: a mother who thoughtfully picks off unwanted olives from your pizza but doesn’t accept that you’re gay. Peers who taunt “boys like you” being in each other’s presence. Adults who would rather you live in fear than as yourself. And slowly, under obscene pressure, learning not to trust those around you, even the people you care about most. It’s equal parts despairing and infuriating, and a potent horror combo here.

In the end, “Leviticus” is a stellar debut, and continues the summer’s hot streak of great horror, including “Obsession” and “Backrooms.” It’s taut and atmospheric, anchored by two fantastic performances that capture the ecstasy and fear of discovering yourself. And it’s scary in all the ways that leave a mark — whether on your skin or on your heart.

Four “They wanted us to be scared” stars out of five, and a critic’s pick.

Photo caption: Stacy Clausen, left, and Joe Bird in “Leviticus.” (Neon)