Haze (OUTshine After Dark)

Joseph returns to his hometown to investigate the hush-hush case of eight gay men who allegedly died by suicide at a now-abandoned psychiatric hospital. While photographing the location and interviewing past employees, Joseph encounters memorable townsfolk, including a prying childhood neighbor and the elusive Luke, with whom he develops steamy chemistry. As suspicious deaths begin occurring around the neighborhood, the investigation deepens. Director Matthew Fifer, known for Cicada, crafts Haze as a slow-burn queer slice-of-life thriller with somber, horror-leaning qualities. The film’s eerie, beautiful shots and Joseph’s gradual character development create a haunting, contemplative experience.