Closet Monster (2015)

Closet Monster (2015) is a Canadian psychological drama film written and directed by Stephen Dunn. The film is a deeply personal and visually imaginative coming-of-age story that explores themes of trauma, sexual identity, and self-acceptance. Blending elements of fantasy and psychological horror, Closet Monster presents a unique and emotionally resonant portrayal of a young man’s struggle to reconcile his fears and desires.

The story follows Oscar Madly (played by Connor Jessup), a creative and introspective teenager living in Newfoundland. As a child, Oscar witnesses a horrific hate crime, which leaves him deeply traumatized and fearful of his own emerging sexuality. Adding to his emotional turmoil is his strained relationship with his father, Peter (played by Aaron Abrams), a bitter and emotionally abusive man who reinforces Oscar’s internalized shame.

Oscar’s only source of comfort comes from his pet hamster, Buffy (voiced by Isabella Rossellini), who serves as his imaginary confidante and voice of reason. Through surreal and dreamlike sequences, Buffy speaks to Oscar, offering him guidance and support as he struggles with his identity. The use of fantasy elements in the film adds a layer of emotional depth, illustrating Oscar’s inner world and the psychological barriers he must overcome.

As Oscar enters adolescence, he finds himself drawn to Wilder (played by Aliocha Schneider), a charismatic and free-spirited co-worker at a hardware store. Wilder’s confidence and openness intrigue Oscar, awakening feelings he has long repressed. However, his growing attraction also triggers his past trauma, leading to disturbing hallucinations and self-destructive tendencies that threaten to consume him.

Stephen Dunn’s direction creates a visually stunning and emotionally immersive experience. The film’s cinematography, with its mix of vibrant and muted colors, reflects Oscar’s shifting emotions and internal conflict. The use of body horror elements, such as scenes where Oscar envisions foreign objects embedded in his body, symbolizes his fear of transformation and self-acceptance. These striking visual metaphors make Closet Monster a unique and deeply affecting film.

Connor Jessup delivers a powerful and nuanced performance as Oscar, capturing both his vulnerability and resilience. His portrayal of a young man battling internalized fear and shame is raw and deeply moving. The supporting cast, including Joanne Kelly as Oscar’s loving but distant mother and Sofia Banzhaf as his best friend Gemma, adds further depth to his journey.

Upon its release, Closet Monster received critical acclaim for its inventive storytelling, strong performances, and emotional honesty. It won the Best Canadian Feature Film award at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) in 2015 and was praised for its unique approach to exploring LGBTQ+ themes. Many critics and audiences resonated with Oscar’s journey of self-discovery and the film’s powerful depiction of trauma and resilience.

In the years since its release, Closet Monster has remained a significant and beloved entry in queer cinema. Its blend of realism and fantasy, along with its poignant exploration of identity and personal growth, has made it a deeply relatable and visually striking film. By confronting difficult emotions through a creative and empathetic lens, Closet Monster stands as an important and memorable coming-of-age story.