July 7, 4:00PM – 5:00PM (PDT)
After directing three shorts and several episodes of television, Chiarella made his directorial debut with Leviticus, which sold to Neon as the first deal of the 2026 Sundance Film Festival. The film is being released theatrically on June 19, 2026.
In this coming-of-age horror film, two teenage boys must escape a violent entity that takes the form of the person they desire most— each other. Starring Mia Wasikoska, Joe Bird, and breakout star Stacy Clausen, the film explores the horror of conversion therapy in rural Australia.
In this live online event, Chiarella will discuss directing young performers in emotionally demanding roles, depicting the darker aspects of spirituality on screen, and utilizing the horror genre to authentically portray the nuances of the queer experience. Whether you’re a writer, director, or a cinema lover curious about the craft, you won’t want to miss this deep dive into one of the most anticipated independent horror films of the year!
