The Miseducation of Cameron Post is an unconventional coming of age tale in which a young lesbian girl is shipped off to conversion therapy camp to essentially ‘pray the gay away’. Desiree Akhavan’s second feature film is an adaptation of the novel of the same name and is both heartwarming and heartbreaking.
Following the exposure of her relationship with her best friend, Cameron (Chloe Grace Moretz) is forced to attend Promise, a Christian therapy center – dedicated to rehabilitating teenagers from their sinful behaviour. In Cameron’s case, this means mending her back to a heterosexual woman. Despite the heavy atmosphere, Desiree Akhavan manages to portray not only the hardships of Cameron’s life at Promise, but also the humorous awkwardness in her situation. You can’t help but laugh at the ridiculous reasons Dr Lydia Marsh (Jennifer Ehle), Camp Promise founder, gives to Cameron’s diagnosed ‘SSA (same-sex attraction)’ – allegedly Cameron’s love of athletics has caused her to experience gender confusion.
My love for this film only grew because of Moretz’s delightful performance. She captivates the audience with her wonderful portrayal of Cameron – her vulnerability and disconnect with the surrounding environment. Although Cameron is self-assured, she begins to question herself, tackling the growing feelings of self-disgust as she navigates her own sexuality in a place that aims to destroy it. Moretz expertly delivers a character that is complex and layered, something that I always find myself looking for within female protagonists.
Akhavan has managed to create a powerful and poignant film that handles the topic of conversion therapy with care. Undoubtedly one of my favourite book to screen adaptations, this film is a must-see.
Jacinthe (17)
The Miseducation of Cameron Post
Sydney Film Festival