Badass Beauty Queen

Badass Beauty Queen is a stirring and purpose-driven documentary film released in 2018. The movie revolves around the inspirational life story of Anastasia Lin, an actress, human rights advocate, and a beauty queen. The film does not merely focus on the aesthetic aspects of her beauty pageant career. Instead, it paints a broader picture of how Lin uses her platform to champion for a cause far greater than herself- advocating for human rights and freedom, particularly in her home country, China.

The engaging story begins with Anastasia Lin, a Chinese-born Canadian, making headlines around the world by winning the 2015 Miss World Canada title. However, the narrative quickly shifts focus to a significant aspect of her life - a deeply-rooted concern about human rights abuses in China, an issue close to her heart that forms the backbone of her platform and her journey.

Lin unapologetically vocalizes her concerns about China's human rights record, drawing global attention to several specific issues. One of her primary focuses is organ harvesting from religious prisoners of conscience - a brutal, horrific practice that the Chinese authorities vehemently deny but have been widely reported by several independent investigators.

Instead of allowing her new-found fame to treat her with superficial glamour and spotlight, Lin decides to leverage it to place a spotlight onto the dark corners of a regime that has long been criticized for its human rights abuses. This decision, although risky, is driven by her strong will, courage and sense of social responsibility.

Badass Beauty Queen is brilliantly structured, taking viewers on a rollercoaster ride, far away from Lin's glittering world of glamour. It neither avoids nor downplays the dangers Lin faces due to her outspokenness. Instead, it goes in-depth into how her advocacy earns her the ire of the Chinese government, resulting in her father - who still lives in China - becoming a subject of threats and persecution. Her father's plight becomes a critical subplot of the narrative, showcasing the reach and impact of China's regime on anyone who attempts to shed light onto truth.

Despite these challenges, Lin's courageous resolve never falters. Her undying spirit and genuine intention to help people suffering under oppressive regimes bring an element of authenticity to the film. The film eloquently captures her journey, from being an unaware teenager to becoming a bold advocate, unafraid to face the consequences of standing up to an intimidating power.

Director Theresa Kowall-Shipp does a commendable job, aiming to ensure that every scene featuring Lin evokes a sense of liberation, fear, courage, or intense emotion. The movie's editing and score are meticulously crafted to give depth and weight to Lin's story, capturing not only the physical journey but also the emotional arc of its subjects.

The in-depth interviews, narratives from family and friends, and dramatic re-enactments create a cohesive fusion of personal testimony and political activism. The visual elements of the film, though not overly extravagant, are enough to draw the viewer into the narrative and keep them engaged throughout.

Badass Beauty Queen ends on an inspiring note, sharing a message of fearlessness, resilience, and determination. It also pays homage to every individual who is unwilling to shush their voice against any form of human rights abuse. Anastasia Lin emerges not just as a beauty queen, but indeed, as a 'badass' fighter who battles for a noble cause.

The movie inevitably raises questions about values, ethics, power structures, and reminds us all of the importance of free speech and human rights in a society. It serves as a catalyst for thought-provoking discussions on a global scale.

This film is bound to leave its audiences in awe of Anastasia Lin – the brave woman, the daring activist, and the fearless beauty queen, who stood up against a mighty adversary. She is indeed a true embodiment of a Badass Beauty Queen.

The film is a compelling watch, especially for those interested in human rights issues and geopolitical topics. It captures Lin's persistent struggle and the incessant spirit of rebellion against oppressive forces, thus weaving an unforgettable tale of courage, beauty, and activism on a global stage.