Boy Erased, released in 2018, is a drama film directed by Joel Edgerton and based on a memoir by Garrard Conley. The movie follows the story of Jared Eamons, played by Lucas Hedges, who is outed to his parents, Nancy and Marshall Eamons, played by Nicole Kidman and Russell Crowe, respectively. Jared's father is a Baptist pastor in a small Arkansas town, where the church and faith play a significant role in people's lives.
When Jared's parents learn about his sexuality, they are shocked and devastated. His father, in particular, sees being gay as a sin and is determined to "cure" his son by sending him to a gay conversion therapy program, run by a man named Victor Sykes, played by Joel Edgerton. Jared is hesitant about the program but reluctantly agrees to attend to please his parents.
At the program, Jared meets other young men like him who are struggling with their sexuality. He shares his experiences, thoughts, and feelings with them, but the program's methods are brutal and abusive. Jared is subjected to various forms of emotional and physical torture, including being forced to reenact past traumas, shock therapy, and being taught to hate himself.
As Jared undergoes the program, he starts to realize that being gay is not something he can change or control. He ultimately decides to leave the program and confront his parents, who struggle to accept him for who he is. Jared's journey towards self-acceptance and the challenges he faces in a hostile environment forms the central theme of the movie.
Overall, Boy Erased is a powerful and emotionally charged portrayal of the harsh realities faced by many LGBTQ+ individuals today. It depicts the harm and dangers of gay conversion therapy and highlights the importance of love, acceptance, and support for those who need it most.