Boy Erased (2018) is an American biographical drama film directed by Joel Edgerton, based on the memoir of the same name by Garrard Conley. The film tells the story of a young man, Jared Eamons, who is forced into a gay conversion therapy program by his conservative parents. It is a poignant and powerful exploration of identity, family, and the damaging effects of such therapies. The film is an emotional journey of self-acceptance and the painful process of breaking free from the constraints imposed by family and society.

The plot follows Jared Eamons (Lucas Hedges), a teenager raised in a deeply religious family in the American South. When Jared’s sexual orientation is revealed, his parents, Nancy (Nicole Kidman) and Marshall (Russell Crowe), decide to send him to a conversion therapy center, believing it will “cure” him of his homosexuality. The therapy center, led by the manipulative and charismatic Victor Sykes (Joel Edgerton), subjects Jared and other participants to various methods aimed at changing their sexual identity. As Jared struggles with the psychological and emotional trauma of the program, he must confront his identity and decide whether he will conform to his parents’ wishes or fight for his own truth.

Lucas Hedges delivers an outstanding performance as Jared Eamons, capturing the vulnerability, confusion, and eventual strength of his character. Hedges skillfully portrays a young man who is torn between his love for his parents and his need to embrace his true self. Nicole Kidman and Russell Crowe also provide strong performances as his parents, with Kidman portraying a mother who is loving but trapped by her beliefs, and Crowe embodying a father who is deeply entrenched in the idea of religious duty. Their characters’ reactions to Jared’s situation highlight the emotional complexity of family dynamics when dealing with sensitive issues such as sexuality and belief systems.

One of the key themes of Boy Erased is the destructive impact of conversion therapy, a practice that seeks to change an individual’s sexual orientation through psychological and physical methods. The film paints a stark picture of the emotional and psychological toll that these programs can have on vulnerable individuals, especially young people. Through Jared’s experience, the film sheds light on the harmful nature of these therapies, showing how they foster shame, self-loathing, and confusion rather than providing support or healing. The film emphasizes the importance of self-acceptance and the right to live authentically, regardless of societal pressures or religious dogma.

Joel Edgerton’s direction in Boy Erased is sensitive and nuanced, allowing the film to deeply explore the emotional complexities of its characters. Edgerton also plays Victor Sykes, the head of the conversion therapy center, delivering a chilling performance as a man who justifies his abusive methods with a veneer of compassion and faith. The film’s pacing is deliberate, allowing the audience to witness Jared’s inner turmoil and gradual transformation as he begins to question the validity of the therapy and the people around him. The cinematography by Eduard Grau effectively captures the stark contrast between the oppressive environment of the therapy center and the warmth of Jared’s moments of personal growth and freedom.

The film’s emotional weight is further enhanced by its strong supporting cast, including Troye Sivan, who plays Gary, another participant in the therapy program who forms a bond with Jared. The relationship between Jared and Gary adds a layer of complexity to the story, as it explores themes of love, friendship, and the search for connection in a hostile environment. Additionally, the film features a haunting score by Danny Bensi and Saunder Jurriaans, which heightens the emotional intensity of key moments, further drawing the audience into Jared’s struggles and triumphs.

In conclusion, Boy Erased is a powerful and moving film that shines a light on the harmful effects of conversion therapy and the struggles of individuals trying to reconcile their identities with the expectations of their families and society. With exceptional performances from the cast, particularly Lucas Hedges, and a sensitive, thought-provoking direction by Joel Edgerton, the film offers a poignant commentary on the importance of acceptance, love, and living truthfully. Boy Erased is an emotional journey that resonates long after the credits roll, urging viewers to reflect on the importance of empathy, understanding, and the right to live as one truly is.