"Lonesome," directed by Craig Boreham, is a haunting drama that follows a young gay Australian cowboy, Casey, as he flees from a scandal in his rural hometown and tries to start anew in the bustling city of Sydney. The film is a visually stunning exploration of the stark contrasts between the parched countryside and the throbbing lights and seductive beaches of the city.
Lonesome (2022)
Lonesome, directed by Craig Boreham, is a haunting drama that follows a young gay Australian cowboy, Casey, as he flees from a scandal in his rural hometown and tries to start anew in the bustling city of Sydney. The film is a visually stunning exploration of the stark contrasts between the parched countryside and the throbbing lights and seductive beaches of the city.
At the heart of the film is Casey’s struggle with the trauma from his past, and his attempt to find human connection and intimacy in a world that can be both alienating and alluring. The film is anchored by Josh Lavery’s performance as Casey, whose emotional scars are palpable throughout the film.
The film is unflinching in its portrayal of sexual desire, and it refuses to judge Casey for his self-destructive behavior. Instead, it explores the reasons behind his choices and the toll that trauma can take on a person. The film’s sexually explicit content may be challenging for some viewers, but it is ultimately a powerful and intimate study of two strangers finding communion through their shared experiences.
While the acting can be stiff at times, the film’s emotional investment in its central love story keeps it on track. The film’s sex-positive attitude and unselfconscious embrace of nudity make it a bold entry in LGBTQ cinema, and it is sure to find an audience at festivals and among viewers looking for a challenging and thought-provoking drama.
Overall, “Lonesome” is a daring and visually arresting film that explores the human toll of trauma and the struggle to find intimacy in a world that can be both beautiful and brutal.
