Drown is essentially the tale of Len, an experienced surfer and a member of surf lifesaving club who struggles with personal demons. When a new and openly gay member of the lifeguard team, Phil, starts working with the team, Len’s homophobic tendencies and the norms of toxic masculinity are highlighted. Jealous and confused, Len’s character acts violently and engages in a series of confrontations that lead to a night of physical and emotional assault. The film addresses issues of secret desire, cultural norms and the effects of repression.
I want to make the argument that Drown (2015) is one of the more difficult films to sit through. It examines the consequences to society of such phenomena as violent homophobia, toxic masculinity, and internalized shame. Adapted from a play by Stephen Davis, the film illustrates how bigotry and undemonstrative feelings can fracture whole people, families, or societies.
The film’s main thematic concern, however, can be described as a biography of Len Smithy, brought to life by Matthew Levett, who offers a rich and fully fleshed out portrayal of the character. This character has a toxic mix of strength, self doubt, and confusion. As he has been exposed to hypermasculinist environment, on the one hand, he is a homophobe, but on the other, he is attracted to Phil. This contradiction is the core conflict throughout the film and ultimately, the demise of the character’s credibility.
Co-writer and director Dean Francis does not hesitate to take on board such difficult themes. The beach itself becomes an inseparable element of the film – the cinematography is exceptionally colourful and the tension culminates within this beautiful space. On the other hand, some of Francis’ stylistic choices at times may detract the audience from the film.
The film’s non-chronological events and more modified approach may seem a little odd. Elements like the spectative glimpses of Len’s remembrance of the woman who died are left underexposed and are pretty confusing. Certain parts, like how Meat got his name, border on lunacy and lessen how much suspense his turn in the story’s plot provides.
Regardless of the issues stated, the movie is able to balance out by Matt Levett’s portrayal of Len. Levett’s characterization of Len is typical but also flattering as he gets to reveal his false arrogance only to make the audience see him on a more emotional side.
The film clearly grapples with the impact of negative attitudes toward homosexuality and also the problems originating from the unchecked masculinity. The final moments of the movie are alphabetical memories cringing to watch as they are disturbing as well as disgusting which are definitely the more extreme side of human behavior. At times the film does have weak scripts as some lines are just way too in your face.
In 2005, director Dean Francis made the short film Boys Grammar, in which he depicted abuse at an exclusive private boys’ school. You can watch it here. Boys Grammar (2005)
