Review of Boy Erased (2018) by Markhreviews — 06 Dec 2018

Fortunately and unfortunately, “Boy Erased” is a true story. Unfortunate because the trauma and suffering inflicted on the main character are based on the author’s real-world experiences. Fortunate because the entire film is imbued with an unmistakable authenticity that is riveting to watch.

Based on the book by the same name, (author Garrard Conley becomes Jared Eamons in the film) the story chronicles Jared’s late-adolescent awkwardness and his increasing suspicion that he is gay. Jared’s father (Russell Crowe), a Baptist minister who also runs the local Ford dealership, believes that homosexuality is sin and that the only way forward is to send Jared to a gay conversion camp. The results are heart-wrenching, with the young man earnestly, guilelessly trying to anchor his life in a belief system that rejects the core of his being. While Jared’s pain is heartbreaking, the screenplay creates no scapegoats, even if some would be well-deserved. Director-Writer-Actor Joel Edgerton has used extraordinary sensitivity in conveying the good intentions of all concerned. Even those running the conversion therapy program, which is a true horror show, are portrayed as earnest and sincere. Although no one is written off as stupid or evil, the consequences for Jared and the other unfortunates experiencing conversion therapy are no less devastating. In a too-bizarre-to-not-be-true postscript at the end of the film, it is noted that the aggressive leader of the gay conversion program now lives in Texas – with his husband.

It would be easy to suggest that “Boy Erased” is a star-making vehicle for Lucas Hedges as ,Jared. However, since he already has an Oscar nomination (for "Manchester by the Sea," 2016) and key roles in three excellent recent films - "Lady Bird," "Three Billboards …" and "Mid90s" – it’s impossible to suggest that he is a revelation. That said, his performance is absolutely magnificent. His totally convincing portrayal of adolescent confusion, earnest faith and burgeoning self-regard are the essence of this film’s excellence. In minor roles, Russell Crowe (Marshall Eamons) and Nicole Kidman (Nancy Eamons) make solid contributions. Kidman, as a strong Southern belle (a “steel magnolia” if you will), is particularly essential to the story and skillful in her performance.

In the final analysis, “Boy Erased” is not just a story about the difficulties of coming out in a conservative Southern community. The inevitable pain of that experience is effectively, honestly counterbalanced by the demonstration that a mother’s love for her son can redeem even the most difficult situation.