Review of Boy Erased (2018) by Moviemitch96 — 17 Nov 2018

Joel Edgerton wrote, starred in, and directed this film about a young man who finds himself coming out as gay to his parents following a traumatic experience with another man at college. He is subsequently sent to a gay conversion therapy center run by a highly religious therapist who is much more harsh and judgmental than he initially appears.

This is such important and tender subject matter that I was hoping the film wouldn't have shyed away from as much in favor of focusing more on melodramatic moments, but there are still a couple of scenes that really left a big impact and showcased the difficulties and oppressions those in the LGBT community face all the time sadly.

The acting is also the film's biggest highlight, with Lucas Hedges giving a tender and at times highly moving lead performance, as well as some great supporting performances from Nicole Kidman and Russell Crowe as his parents.

Edgerton's turn as the intimidating religious head therapist of the conversion center also leaves a strong and lasting impact during several scenes. Overall, it's themes and subject matter are played out relatively safe often times unfortunately, but it's the committed cast and their great scenes and performances alongside each other that really makes the film.