The Queens

The Queens is a riveting 2019 documentary film that brings you backstage and into the personal lives of four of the most iconic and influential drag queens in the world - Jinkx Monsoon, Sharon Needles, Alaska Thunderfuck, and Miz Cracker. This dynamic and engaging documentary captures not only the glitz and glamour of their glittering careers but also the challenges, struggles, and transformation they face, deeply entrenched in the heart of drag performance.

Beyond the feathers, sequins, and stage lights, The Queens delves into the performers' struggles with identity, acceptance, and self-expression – issues that resonate profoundly with many people beyond the drag community. The film portrays the reality behind the fabulous on-stage personas and brings to light their individual journeys, their struggles with body image, coping with personal trauma and the relentless pursuit of their passion.

The film opens with an introduction of the drag queens – Jinkx Monsoon, winner of RuPaul's Drag Race Season 5; Sharon Needles, the gothic star who took home the crown in Season 4; Alaska Thunderfuck, the Season 5 runner-up who later triumphed in All Stars Season 2; and Miz Cracker, a fan favourite from Season 10. All veterans of the popular reality show "RuPaul's Drag Race," these talented drag queens have gained international fame and impact far beyond their appearances on the show.

The Queens is a testament to how drag has evolved from dimly lit bars to mainstream entertainment, influencing the world of fashion, music, and popular culture. It gives us an insight into the performers' rise to fame, exploring how 'RuPaul's Drag Race' has revolutionized the perception of drag queens and how it initiated its transition into the mainstream. Apart from their iconic status on TV, the film allows us to explore how these queens leverage their fame, navigating the business side of drag – from merchandise to worldwide tours.

Jinkx Monsoon, the quirky and thoroughly entertaining queen with a powerful voice, is showcased not only as a captivating performer but also as a fiercely independent artist, advocating for LGBTQ+ rights. Sharon Needles, with her horror-themed performances, challenges societal norms, while Alaska Thunderfuck exudes charisma and uniqueness that transcend the stage. Miz Cracker, representing the new generation of drag, reflects on the pressures of success and her journey to be her true self.

Director Mark Saxenmeyer does a superb job showcasing the captivating charm and depth of these characters, away from the television spectacle and spotlight. With deft handling of intimate interviews and behind-the-scenes footage, Saxenmeyer unravels the complex, beautiful, and sometimes heart-wrenching stories these performers hide beneath the makeup and stilettos. He also deftly addresses the intricacies of drag culture, touching upon its historical background, the gender politics involved, and the endurance it takes to maintain this profession.

The Queens challenges us to reassess our prejudices and myths about drag queens while highlighting the Greek drama and cathartic storytelling that goes into each performance. It underscores the relevance and importance of drag in contemporary society - empowering individuals to be unabashedly honest about their identities. It sheds light on the dramatic art form that is not merely about mimicking femininity but honouring the courage it takes to go against societal norms and expressing oneself authentically.

The film operates on the dual level of spotlighting drag culture's glamour, glitz, and progressive impact, while simultaneously underpinning the emotional struggles and adversities the performers face on their path to self-expression. The Queens is as much about the drag queens' eccentric personalities and performances as it is about their stories of personal growth, courage, and resilience.

In conclusion, The Queens is a poignant, inspiring, and illuminely insightful documentary for all, whether you are a die-hard fan of drag culture or a casual viewer seeking an understanding of this vibrant world. Whether it's to inspire, entertain, or educate, this film has something to offer everyone. It's an emotionally-charged rollercoaster ride that leaves viewers both dazzled and moved. Hilarious, heartbreaking, and inspiring, it's a love letter to drag and the queens who don its crown.