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A review by jayisreading
It Came from the Closet: Queer Reflections on Horror by Joe Vallese
dark
informative
reflective
medium-paced
4.5
The affinity that a number of queer people have with the monstrous is one that is explored in depth in this essay collection. I was invested in what each contributor had to say about their thoughts on their queer identity in relation to a horror film of their choice, which ranged from classic slashers to non-US horror films. Furthermore, this is an incredibly diverse collection of essays, not only in terms of how queerness is defined, but many of these authors also consider their race and/or disability. The contributors’ respective reflections really revealed the complexities of how the monster has been defined by culture and society, some taking a more academic tone when discussing this, while others had a more conversational tone.
Like any edited collection, I found some essays stronger than others. Overall, though, I’d say that it’s rather difficult to call any of them weak. Well worth picking up if you’re interested in horror (and a number of these essays don’t shy away from it, fair warning) and queerness. Relatedly, I recommend picking up Queer Little Nightmares: An Anthology of Monstrous Fiction and Poetry edited by David Ly and Daniel Zomparelli, if you’re looking for more queer monstrosity.
Graphic: Ableism, Body horror, Domestic abuse, Gore, Homophobia, Racism, Transphobia, Violence, Blood, Medical content, and Lesbophobia
Moderate: Biphobia, Death, Miscarriage, Self harm, Suicidal thoughts, Murder, and Pregnancy
Minor: Alcoholism, Pedophilia, Suicide, Forced institutionalization, Deportation, and Pandemic/Epidemic