How ‘Leviticus’ Stars Joe Bird and Stacy Clausen Prepared to Take on the Roles of Two Closeted Teenagers for the Conversion Therapy Horror

The film 'Leviticus,' directed by Adrian Chiarella, premiered in theaters this week, centering on two closeted gay teenagers who are targeted by a supernatural entity. Actors Joe Bird and Stacy Clausen prepared for their roles by researching the experiences of teenagers undergoing conversion therapy. Bird plays the character of a teenager whose parents send him to a conversion therapy camp, while Clausen portrays his love interest. The film draws inspiration from real-world accounts and the societal pressures faced by LGBTQ+ youth. The narrative explores themes of identity, fear, and the psychological impact of forced change. The dialogue, described as romantic, highlights the tender connection between the two protagonists amidst the horror. The production aimed to sensitively portray the struggles and resilience of its young characters. The film's release brings a fictionalized yet grounded exploration of conversion therapy's damaging effects to a wider audience.