STOP! THAT! TRAIN!
Written by Valentina Moreno
Half Diet Coke/ half Cherry coke was the beverage choice of selection. The day was so hot I could’ve drank anything as long as it was cold. From a distance I must’ve looked tired, sweaty, and sun burned, and though in some way, yes I was, internally there was a gratitude and happiness. The cinema is like a second home. A place that feels familiar no matter where in the world I am. I once heard that the people on the screen are like your friends, and in some way I do feel that. It’s an intimate personal experience unlike any other. You’re not only indulging in a world aside from your own, but witnessing the hard work and passion of a wide array of talented individuals. In other words, I could not wait to be in an air-conditioned building witnessing the film created by Adam Shankman, his cast, and his crew.
I had no concept of what I was watching I only knew two things were going to be present: RuPaul and comedy. Not in the flesh, unfortunately, but rather displayed onto the large wide-screen in theater 11.
As soon as the movie began I understood the vision Shankman was going for and I appreciated it. While many LGBTQ+ comedy films exist, rarely do we see films with transgender or Drag Queen leads. As a viewer of RuPaul’s Drag Race myself, I found the dialogue, dance sequences, and wardrobe to be right up my alley. This movie was not trying to be something other than itself. In true Drag Queen fashion, it was upfront and unapologetic. I liked that it didn’t take itself too seriously, it was an easy watch, a genre that was light-hearted enough to let you go on about your day in high spirits (Curry Barker, I’m talking about you!). Although, there were some pacing issues and repetitive comedic choices, I do believe there is something here. For years we have witnessed these queens charm their way onto the screen and into our lives, which makes the transition from television to film, much more exciting. The beauty of the comedy genre is that it leans heavily on personality and breaking traditional norms. Two traits these queens are no strangers to.
So, as I walked out of the AMC theater, dreadfully awaiting my encounter with the sun, I was hopeful. Is the comedy genre coming back? Will there be a resurgence of new voices in the years to come? Laughter is the best medicine after all, and in the city of angels where every babe is hooked onto the newest healing drug, might I make a suggestion? GO! TO! THE! MOVIES!
