Watch Mia Wasikowska and the 'Leviticus' Team Discuss 'Reclaiming' the Horror Genre with a Queer Love Story At the recent Sundance Film Festival, one of the most buzzed-about entries in the horror genre was "Leviticus," a film that aims to challenge and subvert traditional tropes. Writer-director Adrian Chiarella was joined by lead actress Mia Wasikowska, as well as co-stars Stacy Clausen and Joe Bird, to discuss their vision for the project. "Leviticus" follows Naomi, a young woman who becomes entangled in a passionate, dangerous relationship with her new neighbor, Daria. As their bond deepens, they find themselves pulled into a web of occult rituals and supernatural forces that threaten to consume them. The film blends elements of psychological horror, Gothic romance, and queer themes, presenting a fresh take on a familiar genre. In the panel discussion, Chiarella explained his motivation for crafting a horror story centered around a same-sex relationship. "I wanted to reclaim the horror genre and infuse it with more authentic queer narratives," he said. "So often, queer characters in horror films are relegated to supporting roles or used as fodder for cheap thrills. With 'Leviticus,' we're putting queer love at the forefront and exploring the complexities of that experience." Wasikowska, known for her roles in films like "Alice in Wonderland" and "Crimson Peak," was drawn to the project for its willingness to delve into the nuances of queer identity. "Naomi's journey is one of self-discovery and embracing her true nature, even in the face of forces that seek to suppress it," the actress explained. "That's a narrative I don't often see represented in the horror genre, and I was eager to bring that perspective to life." Co-star Stacy Clausen, who portrays Daria, the object of Naomi's obsession, echoed these sentiments. "There's a rawness and authenticity to the way the film explores the complexities of queer desire," Clausen said. "Daria is a complex, multifaceted character who defies simplistic categorization. She's both alluring and unsettling, and that duality is central to the film's exploration of the darker aspects of love and intimacy." The panel also touched on the challenges of balancing the film's supernatural elements with its grounded, character-driven core. "It was important to us that the horror aspects didn't overshadow the emotional journey of the characters," said Chiarella. "We wanted to create a sense of unease and dread, but also to delve into the psychological and interpersonal dynamics that drive the story forward." Joe Bird, who portrays a supporting character, added, "The horror in 'Leviticus' is very much rooted in the human experience. It's not just about jump scares or gory set pieces; it's about the ways in which our deepest fears and desires can manifest in terrifying ways." The panel's discussion highlighted the film's broader thematic ambitions, which go beyond the boundaries of traditional horror. "We're exploring ideas of identity, power, and the ways in which societal expectations can shape and constrain our lives," Chiarella explained. "The supernatural elements serve as a metaphor for the very real challenges and oppressions that marginalized communities face." Wasikowska emphasized the importance of representation in the horror genre, noting that "Leviticus" offers a much-needed counterpoint to the often heteronormative and cisgender narratives that have dominated the field. "Seeing queer characters at the center of a horror story, grappling with their own desires and fears, is a powerful thing," she said. "It's a way of reclaiming a genre that has historically marginalized or exploited those experiences." The panel's discussion underscored the growing momentum behind films that seek to challenge and expand the boundaries of the horror genre. As Chiarella eloquently stated, "'Leviticus' is not just a horror film; it's a love story, a character study, and a commentary on the human condition. We're hoping to push the genre in new directions and give audiences something they haven't seen before." With its captivating performances, atmospheric visuals, and thought-provoking themes, "Leviticus" has emerged as one of the must-see genre films of the year. As the panel made clear, this is a project that aims to redefine the horror landscape, one that celebrates the complexities of queer identity and the power of unconventional storytelling.