9 Must-See Underground Drag Films This Pride Month

Pride Month is the perfect time to celebrate queer cinema, especially the fabulous world of drag. Beyond mainstream hits like To Wong Foo, Thanks for Everything! Julie Newmar and The Birdcage, there exists a vibrant underground scene of drag films that challenge norms and redefine storytelling. These films offer unapologetic authenticity, quirky humor, and insightful commentary on identity and society. So this Pride Month, let’s delve into nine underground drag films that deserve your attention.

1. Die, Mommie, Die! (2003)

Directed by Mark Rucker, Die, Mommie, Die! is a campy homage to mid-century Hollywood melodramas. The film stars drag legend Charles Busch, who not only leads the story with charisma but also injects it with satire. The narrative follows a faded movie star determined to reclaim her glory while grappling with family dysfunction. Busch’s portrayal illuminates the powerful yet fragile nature of femininity, skillfully blending humor and pathos. It’s not just a watch; it’s a masterclass in drag performance and storytelling.

2. What Really Happened to Baby Jane? (1963)

This film, crafted by the Gay Girls Riding Club, is a cult classic that parodies the infamous Whatever Happened to Baby Jane? It captures the essence of camp comedy while providing a loving tribute to the original. Using minimal resources, the GGRC showcases their creativity by transforming a classic horror tale into something wickedly funny and deeply affectionate. This underground gem is a testament to the resourcefulness and passion of queer artists.

3. Girls Will Be Girls (2003)

In Girls Will Be Girls, director Richard Day crafts a delightful exploration of fame and the absurdity of Hollywood. The film features a trio of iconic drag queens—Evie Harris, Varla Jean Merman, and Coco Peru—who brilliantly showcase their comedic talents while navigating the ridiculous world of frozen dinner commercials. Their chemistry and sharp dialogue create an ever-relevant commentary on celebrity culture, identity, and the lengths to which one might go for stardom.

4. Hurricane Bianca (2016)

Hurricane Bianca introduces audiences to Bianca Del Rio, a drag queen renowned for her sharp wit and humor. The film tells the story of a teacher who returns to the school she was fired from, this time in full drag, to reclaim her identity and seek justice. Directed by Matt Kugelman, the movie features an ensemble cast that includes drag icons like Alan Cumming and RuPaul. Not only is it a funny romp, but it also serves as a powerful narrative about resilience and the fight against discrimination.

5. Malice in Wonderland: The Dolls Movie (2010)

Imagine a chaotic blend of Alice in Wonderland and Mommie Dearest—the result is Malice in Wonderland: The Dolls Movie, directed by Russell Maynor. This film is an intoxicating whirlwind of absurdity, showcasing the Albuquerque drag troupe The Dolls. With psychedelic visuals and outrageous scenarios, the film is a celebration of subversion and the eccentricity of drag art. It’s a must-watch for anyone who revels in the bizarre and the audacious side of life.

6. Starrbooty (2007)

RuPaul’s Starrbooty resurrects the blaxploitation genre with a twist of fabulous drag. Released in 2007, the film features RuPaul’s iconic character, who navigates the gritty streets of New York City while delivering a delightful dose of humor and action. This tongue-in-cheek tribute to classic cinema not only showcases RuPaul’s talents but also emphasizes the importance of representation and creativity within the drag community.

7. Death Drop Gorgeous (2020)

In a true blend of horror and comedy, Death Drop Gorgeous takes viewers on a wild ride through a drag queen’s nightmare. Directed by Michael J. Ahern and his collaborators, the story follows a series of murders that plague a community of queens. The film offers a darkly humorous take on nightlife and ageism within the drag scene, wrapped in vibrant visuals and stellar performances. This movie is a compelling exploration of identity, vulnerability, and resilience.

8. Slay (2024)

Coming soon to a screen near you, Slay brings a fresh twist to the vampire genre, featuring a cast of beloved drag queens including Trinity the Tuck and Heidi N Closet. Directed by Jem Garrard, this film embodies the spirit of drag culture through its campy storytelling and thrilling action. As these fabulous performers face down vampire foes, it promises to capture the essence of being a queer artist battling various monsters, both literal and metaphorical.

9. Lypsinka: Toxic Femininity (2024)

Directed by Chloë Sevigny, this short film dives deep into the world of drag through the alter ego Lypsinka, portrayed by John Epperson. With its nostalgic VHS aesthetics, the film studies the complexities of women in the public eye and the campiness that defines drag performance. Epperson’s masterful execution illustrates how drag has functioned as both critique and celebration of feminine tropes throughout history.

Conclusion

Pride Month invites us to celebrate not just the well-known narratives but also the underground voices that contribute to the richness of queer cinema. These nine drag films highlight the creativity, humor, and resilience of drag performers who have blazed trails and challenged norms. So, grab your popcorn and prepare to dive into a fabulous cinematic journey that showcases the true spirit of drag.

Source:
www.wmagazine.com