Tanya’s Score: Good*
Rated: 14A
Starring: a passel of Aussies, Lucas Hedges
Plot: Based on a true story, a teenager (Lucas Hedges) from a strict, religious family is sent to a gay conversion program after he comes out to his parents (Nicole Kidman and Russell Crowe).
Tanya’s Verdict: There’s no re-inventing the wheel when it comes to Boy Erased in the way that it is filmed or in the way that the story unfolds. However, in the beginning, the story is enough to capture the audience’s attention and hold it for a bit. But after a while, the back and forth between past and present grows tiresome and eventually uneven.
That said, there is a lot to like about this movie: the acting is tremendous; the theme of attempting to change the fabric of a person’s being is interesting – and if you think I’m talking about gay conversion here – then you’re wrong. I’m referring to the creative way this movie turns that idea on its ear – by focussing on the equally frustrating task of trying to change the attitudes of people who whole-heartedly believe that homosexuality is a sinful life choice.
Kidman’s character is probably one of the most sympathetic portrayals I’ve seen in a while – due to her capability to understand and feel compassion for both her gay son as well as her pastor husband.
There are plenty of poignant moments throughout Boy Erased – moments that evoke heartache and disgust and even inspiration. But for me, this movie still fell a bit short of my lofty expectations.
*Four score descriptions: Sh**; Okay; Good; Great