A creative and driven teenager is desperate to escape his hometown and the haunting memories of his turbulent childhood.
Closet Monster is a deeply personal coming-of-age film centered on Oscar Madly, a creative and sensitive teenager grappling with his identity and trauma. As a child, Oscar witnesses a horrifying homophobic attack that leaves a lasting psychological imprint. Compounded by the strain of his parents’ divorce and his father’s homophobic tendencies, Oscar suppresses his true self. His only confidante is Buffy, a talking hamster voiced by Isabella Rossellini, symbolizing his inner voice and a source of comfort.
In his late teens, Oscar discovers his passion for makeup and visual effects while navigating his budding sexuality. His feelings for Wilder, a free-spirited coworker, awaken a mix of desire and fear, underscoring his inner conflict. Through a blend of surreal imagery and symbolic hallucinations—such as vomiting screws and bolts—Oscar’s mental and emotional struggles become tangible. The climax sees Oscar confront his father and, ultimately, his fears, paving the way for personal liberation and self-acceptance.
Analysis and Themes
- Identity and Self-Discovery: The film delves into Oscar’s journey to embrace his sexuality and individuality in the face of societal and familial pressures.
- Trauma and Its Manifestations: The surreal visuals reflect Oscar’s unresolved childhood trauma, including his fear of rejection and internalized homophobia.
- Parental Influence: Oscar’s strained relationship with his father highlights the impact of parental behavior on a child’s mental health and self-perception.
- Imagination as Refuge: Buffy and Oscar’s surreal experiences symbolize the power of imagination in coping with pain and navigating life.
- Acceptance and Healing: The narrative emphasizes the importance of confronting fears to achieve self-acceptance and emotional healing.
10 Reasons to Watch Closet Monster (2016)
- Unique Visual Storytelling: The surreal elements creatively externalize Oscar’s internal struggles, making the film visually compelling.
- Powerful Performances: Connor Jessup delivers a raw and authentic portrayal of a teenager grappling with identity and trauma.
- Relatable Themes: Themes of self-discovery, acceptance, and the search for belonging resonate universally.
- Symbolic Depth: The film’s use of symbols like the metal rod and Buffy add layers of meaning to Oscar’s journey.
- Intimate Direction: Stephen Dunn crafts a deeply personal narrative, drawing from his own experiences to create a heartfelt story.
- Innovative Sound Design: The soundscape enhances the film’s surreal and emotional atmosphere.
- LGBTQ+ Representation: The film provides a nuanced portrayal of queer identity and the challenges of coming out.
- Award-Winning Story: It won Best Canadian Feature Film at TIFF, affirming its artistic and narrative excellence.
- Emotional Impact: The story is both heart-wrenching and uplifting, leaving a lasting impression on viewers.
- Exploration of Family Dynamics: The film offers a poignant look at how family relationships shape individual growth.
How You’ll Feel After Watching Closet Monster (2016)
After watching Closet Monster, you’ll likely feel a mix of emotions. The film’s honest exploration of identity and trauma might evoke empathy, while its hopeful conclusion could inspire a sense of empowerment. You may also reflect on societal norms and the importance of self-acceptance. The surreal elements and Oscar’s creative pursuits might leave you appreciating the resilience of the human spirit in overcoming adversity.
This film is a journey through pain, self-discovery, and eventual liberation, making it both deeply personal and universally resonant
