Drown (film)

Drown is a 2015 Australian psychological thriller film written and directed by Dean Francis. The film explores themes of toxic masculinity, homophobia, and violence within a group of surf lifesavers.

Synopsis:

The story centres around Dean, a young and promising surf lifesaver who is involved in a series of violent incidents after joining a new team. The film depicts Dean's struggle to conform to the hyper-masculine and often brutal culture of the squad, particularly as he grapples with his own repressed sexuality and the unwanted attention he receives from a manipulative teammate. As the hazing intensifies, Dean becomes increasingly isolated and the violence escalates, leading to tragic consequences.

Cast:

• Matt Levett as Dean
• Jack Matthews as Phil
• Harry Cook as Lennox
• Sam Parsonson as Ditch
• Jayron Brown as Craig

Themes:

• Toxic Masculinity: The film examines the harmful effects of rigidly defined gender roles and expectations on men, particularly the pressure to suppress emotions and engage in aggressive behaviour.
• Homophobia: Drown portrays the prevalence of homophobia within the surf lifesaver culture and the devastating impact it has on individuals who are perceived as different.
• Hazing and Violence: The film depicts the brutality of hazing rituals and the cycle of violence that can perpetuate within closed groups.
• Repressed Sexuality: Dean's internal struggle with his sexuality contributes to his vulnerability and makes him a target for manipulation.

Reception:

Drown received mixed reviews. Some critics praised the film's exploration of complex social issues and the performances of the cast, while others criticized its graphic violence and perceived exploitation of sensitive themes. The film was recognized at several film festivals and sparked conversations about the prevalence of homophobia and toxic masculinity in Australian society.