Lilies Not for Me (2024) by Will Seefried

“Lilies Not for Me” (2024) is a period drama set in England in the early 1920s, directed and written by Will Seefried. The film explores the burgeoning homosexual relationship between two old school friends, Owen (Fionn O’Shea), a young writer, and Philip (Robert Aramayo), a medic who has returned from the First World War. Their intimacy develops in the quiet of the countryside, amidst their own internalized homophobia and societal pressures. Philip, influenced by his medical studies which deemed homosexuality “wrong,” embarks on a harrowing and often undocumented medical process aimed at “curing” his sexuality. The film is split into two timelines: the initial relationship and the arrival of a guest (Louis Hofmann) who disrupts their dynamic, and a later period where Owen is confined to a medical institution undergoing conversion therapy, where he forms an unexpected bond with a nurse, Dorothy (Erin Kellyman).

The story unfolds in England in the early 1920s. Owen, a novelist struggling with his second book, is residing in a medical institution where he is subjected to injections as part of a treatment to “cure” his homosexuality. Between these nauseating treatments, he has practice tea-time “dates” with Dorothy, a kind nurse, intended to prepare him for heterosexual attraction. Through flashbacks, the film reveals Owen’s earlier time at a secluded cottage in the countryside, where he rekindles his friendship with Philip, a doctor and war veteran. Their deep feelings for each other emerge, leading to a secret relationship. Philip, grappling with his own understanding of homosexuality as “wrong” based on his medical knowledge, initiates a risky procedure in an attempt to suppress their forbidden feelings. Their relationship is further complicated by the arrival of a third person. The later timeline in the institution sees Owen recounting these past relationships to Dorothy, forming an unlikely connection with her as they both navigate societal expectations and their own understanding of sexuality.

Will Seefried was inspired to make “Lilies Not for Me” after learning about historical procedures from the 1920s that claimed to “cure” homosexuality. His vision was to shed light on this harrowing and often neglected period in queer history, exploring the scientifically debunked practice of trying to change someone’s sexuality. He aimed to tell a tender story of forbidden love amidst societal repression and the personal sacrifices made to conceal one’s true self.

• Forbidden Love: The central theme is the love between Owen and Philip, which is deemed unacceptable and in need of a “cure” by society in the 1920s.

• Societal Repression and Homophobia: The film starkly portrays the intense societal pressures and internalized homophobia that forced LGBTQ+ individuals to conceal their true selves and even seek harmful “cures.”

• Conversion Therapy and Unethical Medical Practices: The film exposes the horrific and unethical medical procedures used in the early 20th century in an attempt to change someone’s sexual orientation.

• Identity and Self-Acceptance: The characters struggle with their identities in a time when their feelings were considered a sickness, highlighting the difficult journey towards self-acceptance in a hostile environment.

• Love, Loss, and Human Emotion: Despite the dark historical context, the film also tenderly portrays the complexities of love and the pain of loss experienced by the characters.

• Unlikely Friendship and Connection: The bond that develops between Owen and his nurse, Dorothy, in the institution offers a glimmer of kindness and understanding in a discriminatory setting.

• Important and Underexplored Historical Subject Matter: The film sheds light on a dark and often overlooked aspect of LGBTQ+ history.

• Strong Performances: Fionn O’Shea and Robert Aramayo’s performances as Owen and Philip have been praised for their vulnerability and chemistry. Erin Kellyman’s portrayal of Dorothy also stands out as an oasis of kindness.

• Beautiful Visuals and Period Setting: The film is noted for its exquisitely dressed period setting, charming music, and beautiful cinematography, contrasting with the film’s darker themes.

• Meticulous Research: The film is reported to be meticulously researched, lending authenticity to its portrayal of the historical context and procedures.

“Lilies Not for Me” is a period drama set in 1920s England, exploring the secret homosexual relationship between a writer and a doctor and the devastating consequences of societal homophobia and attempts to “cure” their love.

• Nominated for the Sean Connery Award at the 2024 Edinburgh International Film Festival.

• Part of Newfest36 in 2024.

• Winner Univerciné Jury Prize, Festival Univerciné Britannique

Critics have generally responded positively to “Lilies Not for Me,” praising its handling of a sensitive historical subject and the performances.

• Screen Daily: Described the film as focusing on a young writer being “cured” of his homosexuality, with flashbacks to his relationship with a medic friend.

• Loud And Clear Reviews: Called it a gut-wrenching drama revisiting a neglected dark period in queer history through a complex love triangle, praising the luscious cinematography which contrasts with the film’s content.

• Film Hounds: Noted the beautiful period setting and visuals which ease the audience into the story before revealing the harsh reality of Owen’s institutionalization. The review commended Seefried’s writing for highlighting the horror many queer people faced then and continue to face.

• IMDb News: Highlighted the film as a poignant glimpse into history’s shadows, focusing on a novelist recounting his past relationship to his nurse at an asylum.

• Filmy Sasi: Praised the actors’ performances, the aesthetic and liberating portrayal of nudity, and the film’s meticulous research, calling it a century-old apology to gay men.

Overall Summary of Critics Reception: Critics commend “Lilies Not for Me” for its sensitive and impactful portrayal of a tragic period in LGBTQ+ history. The film’s beautiful visuals and strong performances, particularly from the lead actors, are frequently highlighted. The narrative effectively contrasts the initial beauty and freedom of the characters’ love with the brutal reality of societal and medical prejudice.

Reviews consistently praise the film’s acting, particularly Fionn O’Shea’s portrayal of Owen’s vulnerability and Robert Aramayo’s depiction of Philip’s internal conflict. The cinematography and period detail are also frequently mentioned as strengths, contributing to the film’s immersive atmosphere. While some reviews mention a potentially slow pace at the beginning, the overall sentiment is that the film is a powerful and moving exploration of a difficult but important part of queer history.

Box office information for “Lilies Not for Me” is not readily available in the initial search results. However, it has been acquired by Gravitas Ventures for North American digital release in April 2025, suggesting a focus on VOD distribution.

“Lilies Not for Me” is a co-production between the UK, France, South Africa, and the United States.

• Gravitas Ventures acquired North American distribution rights for digital and cable video on demand release in April 2025.

• ASC distribution acquired distribution rights for France, planning a theatrical release in the first quarter of 2025.

• Salzgeber acquired distribution rights for Germany and Austria.

• PT Falcon acquired distribution rights for Indonesia.

• Theatrical Release: Premiered at the Edinburgh International Film Festival on August 16, 2024. Planned theatrical release in France in the first quarter of 2025.

• Streaming Release: Acquired by Gravitas Ventures for digital release in North America in April 2025.

Why to Recommend This Movie:

• Important and Moving Story: The film sheds light on a crucial and often painful aspect of LGBTQ+ history.

• Powerful Performances: Fionn O’Shea and Robert Aramayo deliver compelling and emotionally resonant performances.

• Beautifully Crafted Period Piece: The film’s visual aesthetic enhances the storytelling and immerses the audience in the 1920s setting.

• Raises Awareness of the Horrors of Conversion Therapy: The film serves as a poignant reminder of the damaging and unethical practices of attempting to change someone’s sexual orientation.

• Interest in LGBTQ+ History and Stories: The film offers a deep dive into a specific and significant period in queer history.

• Appreciation for Period Dramas: The 1920s setting is meticulously recreated and beautifully captured.

• Seeking Emotionally Resonant and Thought-Provoking Cinema: The film tackles serious themes with sensitivity and depth.

• Support for Independent Filmmaking: Will Seefried’s debut feature demonstrates a strong artistic vision.

What Movie Trend film is following:

• Historical LGBTQ+ Narratives: Following the success of films like “Call Me by Your Name,” there’s a growing trend in cinema to explore historical stories of LGBTQ+ experiences.

• Independent Films Tackling Difficult Social Issues: “Lilies Not for Me” aligns with a trend of independent films that address challenging and often overlooked social and historical topics.

What Big Social Trend is following:

• Increased Awareness of LGBTQ+ History and Rights: The film contributes to the ongoing societal effort to understand and acknowledge the struggles and experiences of the LGBTQ+ community throughout history.

• Continued Opposition to Conversion Therapy: The film’s depiction of these harmful practices aligns with contemporary movements to ban conversion therapy worldwide.

“Lilies Not for Me” by Will Seefried is a powerful and moving period drama that shines a necessary light on a dark chapter of LGBTQ+ history. With strong performances, beautiful cinematography, and a poignant narrative, the film effectively conveys the pain and injustice faced by gay individuals in the early 20th century due to societal homophobia and harmful medical practices. It is a significant contribution to queer cinema and a reminder of the importance of understanding and learning from the past.

Recommendations for Film Makers:

• Continue to Tell Underrepresented Queer Stories: There are still many stories from LGBTQ+ history that deserve to be told. Filmmakers should be encouraged to explore these narratives with sensitivity and historical accuracy.

• Use Visual Storytelling to Enhance Emotional Impact: The beautiful cinematography in “Lilies Not for Me” powerfully contrasts with the film’s difficult subject matter, enhancing the emotional resonance. Filmmakers should consider how visuals can amplify the emotional impact of their stories.

• Thorough Historical Research is Crucial for Period Dramas: The film’s meticulous research adds to its authenticity and impact. Filmmakers working on historical projects should prioritize thorough research to ensure accuracy and respectful representation.

Recommendations for Movie Industry:

• Support and Distribute LGBTQ+ Historical Dramas: These films play an important role in raising awareness and fostering understanding. The industry should continue to support their production and ensure they reach a wide audience.

• Recognize and Promote New Voices in Queer Cinema: Will Seefried’s debut feature showcases a promising new talent in queer filmmaking. The industry should actively seek out and support emerging filmmakers who are telling diverse and important stories.

• Facilitate International Co-productions for Broader Reach: As a co-production, “Lilies Not for Me” has secured distribution in multiple territories, highlighting the benefits of international collaboration in bringing diverse narratives to a global audience.