Touching base on my Babadook post from last week and my confusion as to why we have no LGBTQ heroes in horror films, I’ve been on the lookout for horror heroes everywhere I can.
Sure, okay, we’re all aware we are represented in the scary relm of cinema. But, we’re typically left to being a transgender serial killer (Sleepaway Camp), a provocative lesbian (Neon Demon), or a homoerotic jock (Nightmare On Elm Street 2).
However, after browsing through Netflix last night, I’m so happy to reveal that the typical representation is on its way out. Why?
I discovered The Villisca Axe Murders.
The indie film is based off of the actual Villisca Axe Murders where a family and two young neighbors were bludgeoned to death in Villisca, Iowa circa 1912. The case is still unsolved. In hindsight, I kind of wish I would’ve known that the film was based on true events before watching, you’re welcome friends, because the after learning about what happened, I’m even MORE terrified.
Axe Murders introduces our protagonist as outcast Jess, played brilliantly by the gorgeous Alex Frnka, we’ll get back to her. The story then shifts focus on to two ridiculously sexy, paranormal chasing, “best friends”, Caleb (Robert Adamson) and Denny (Jarrett Sleeper).
Production definitely tries to hide Sleeper’s bodacious body, seriously, check his Instagram, and makes him as unattractive and dorky as they possibly can. But what they cannot hide is the undeniable affection that Denny shares for his best friend, Caleb, which is flawlessly portrayed by Sleeper and Adamson, respectively.
Throughout the story, Denny tries to prevent Caleb from spending time with Jess and throws a bitch fit when she joins them on their latest excursion to visit the Villisca home AKA where the murders took place. Their banter back and forth is very cat-and-mouse and Caleb (and the other characters) are aware of his friend’s longtime crush.
Clearly, Denny doesn’t hide it too well.
In its climax, the trio performs a seance, because obviously. Jess’ former flame enters and the kids get possessed which leads to the possessions uncovering some truths… including Denny’s longing for Caleb.
My favorite scene, however, happens as Caleb approaches Denny to discuss their more-than-friendship and they make out. It’s really sweet until you realize that Caleb is possessed and it makes you fear for Denny’s life!
In the end, Denny makes every effort to ensure not only his safety…but to get his man Caleb out of the house as well…even if it means leaving Jess behind.
I won’t spoil this too much, because I highly recommend you check The Axe Murders of Villisca out for yourself.
Seriously, though, I am absolutely mind blown that this isn’t in the LGBTQ section of Netflix, especially since Denny is the gay character that we’ve allllllllllllllll been waiting for. I loved it, and I think you will too!
Editor’s Note: You can actually visit the Villisca Murder house and stay the night…creepy.
Images via Netflix
