Watch The Revival

The Revival is an intense and thought-provoking drama that explores themes of faith, sexuality, and identity in a small community in rural America. Set in the present day, the film centers around a troubled young pastor named Eli (played by David Rysdahl), who returns to his hometown after a failed attempt at ministering in the city.

Eli is immediately drawn to a handsome drifter named Daniel (played by Zachary Booth) who is passing through town, and a forbidden romance between the two men soon develops. However, their relationship is complicated by both their own personal demons and the disapproval of the conservative community they live in, which sees homosexuality as a sin.

As Eli struggles with his own conflicting feelings of guilt and desire, he is forced to confront the painful truths of his past and the present-day consequences of his actions. Meanwhile, Daniel becomes a source of hope and healing for him, challenging him to be true to himself and his convictions.

Throughout the film, the relationship between Eli and Daniel is contrasted with Eli's own marriage to his devoted wife June (played by Lucy Faust), who is struggling to understand her husband's sudden emotional distance and attraction to another man. It is clear that Eli is torn between his loyalty to his family and faith community and his own desires and beliefs, as well as his guilt over his own past failings as a husband and pastor.

The Revival is a powerful and emotionally complex film that presents a nuanced portrayal of the challenges faced by LGBTQ individuals in conservative religious communities. Through its vivid and compelling characters, it challenges viewers to consider the implications of their own beliefs and values, and to confront the deep-seated prejudices that continue to shape our society. With standout performances from its talented cast, stunning cinematography, and tight direction, The Revival is a film that lingers in the mind long after the final credits roll.

The Revival is a 2016 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 18 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.6.