Watch Sebastiane

Sebastiane is a 1976 film directed by Derek Jarman, telling the story of Saint Sebastian, a Christian martyr who was killed by the Roman emperor Diocletian in the third century. The film is notable for its experimental and artistic approach to storytelling, using non-linear narrative techniques and a surreal visual style to create a dreamlike atmosphere. It is also notable for its use of Latin dialogue and its portrayal of homoerotic relationships.

The film centers around the title character of Sebastiane, played by Leonardo Treviglio. Sebastiane is a soldier in the Roman army who becomes a Christian and is subsequently exiled to a remote garrison in North Africa. There, he becomes the object of desire for several of his fellow soldiers, including the commandant, Severus (Barney James).

As Sebastiane struggles to maintain his faith in the face of persecution and temptation, the film explores themes of love and sacrifice, as well as the clash between Christianity and the Roman Empire.

The film is visually stunning, with a mix of real and imagined landscapes and a vivid color palette. The use of slow-motion and poetic imagery creates a sense of lyrical beauty, while the violence and sexuality on screen are often shocking and confrontational.

Despite its controversial subject matter, Sebastiane was well-received by critics, who praised its visual style and its exploration of faith and sexuality. It has since become a cult classic and is seen as a milestone in queer cinema.

Overall, Sebastiane is a powerful and provocative film that explores complex themes through stunning visuals and compelling storytelling. Its depiction of homoerotic relationships and its use of Latin dialogue make it a unique and important work in the history of cinema.

Sebastiane is a 1976 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 26 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.2.