Cherry Pop

Cherry Pop is a captivating comedy-movie that immerses its viewers into the vivid and vibrant world of drag. Released in 2017 and directed by Assaad Yacoub, this film is set in a drag club also named - 'Cherry Pop' - which is positioned as a central, emblematic element all throughout the movie. The drama unfolds on the night of a crucial drag contest revolving around an eclectic mix of drag queens each bringing a unique and colourful personality on the stage.

The plot lays its groundwork as it introduces the audience to a newcomer, known by his stage name, 'The Cherry', who finds himself in a transformational journey, the same night of the drag contest. Drag queens consisting mavericks, greenhorns and veteran performer, all take the centre stage at Cherry Pop, making it a hotspot of talent and extravagance. At first, the Cherry seems rather awkward and inexperienced, tossed into the whirlwind of tension, drama and competitiveness that marks the contest night. The film cleverly maintains its empathetic connection with its audience, using the Cherry as an outsider's narrative perspective into the multifaceted world of drag performance.

The movie device a series of events that further attach humor, confidence, and camaraderie amongst the leading lady-queens. With no room for boredom, there's a whole lot of backstabbing, jawing, and laughing amongst the performers. Not only does the movie provide a golden backstage view of a drag show, but it also goes a step further to subtly sketch out each character. From the inception of their career, their dreams, socio-cultural background to their rise in the drag community, Cherry Pop touches upon all of it in its own exuberant style.

With a script that is laced with wit, heartfelt dialogues, and a pulsating soundtrack, Cherry Pop presents a lively depiction of this subculture. It maintains a delicate balance between humour and drama, skillfully imbuing every scene with life and colour. It further shines a light on the trials, tribulations, and triumphs of a drag queen, exploring themes of acceptance, friendship, and self-realization. The result is a mix of sentimental and comedic moments, bound together by the relentless spirit of the characters and an indomitable zeal for performing.

The cast of Cherry Pop is headlined by an ensemble of talented actors, bringing their characters to life with commendable gusto. The film stars Lars Berge as The Cherry, a performer forced into the crucible of the drag world, navigating its challenges, and growing in the process. Veteran actors Caldwell Tidicue (Bob the Drag Queen), Detox Icunt, and Latrice Royale, Alex Matthews (Kitten Withawhip), Tempest Dujour and Mayhem Miller portray various characters, each noteworthy in their distinctive on-stage personas. Their performances, enshrined in glamour, determination, resilience, and heart, significantly contribute to the movie's charismatic allure and vibrance.

The film comes with confident direction by Assaad Yacoub, showcasing an array of antics, showdowns, meltdowns, and raw emotions. His pacing is steady; the scenes flow seamlessly into each other, and the storyline never loses its spark. The film's art direction is laudable, portraying the eccentric world of drag in a captivating, lively manner. The makeup and costume design deserve a special mention for their role in personifying the drag queens. Cherry Pop is a visual delight, with its riot of colors, glitter, over-the-top costumes, and bespoke aesthetics striking a chord with not just the LGBTQ+ community but a broader audience as well.

Cherry Pop is much more than a comedy; it is an eccentric, heartwarming narrative of individuals and their pursuit of self-acceptance, assertion, and validation. In essence, the film not only encapsulates a night in a drag bar but also expands to pose underlying questions about identity, acceptance, friendship, ambition, and the constant quest for self-assertion through artistic expression. The film has a dash of everything - friendship, self-discovery, tolerance, acceptance, and over-the-top drag performances, which makes it a pleasing watch for anyone who loves a good dramedy. Cherry Pop delivers a delightful plunge into an intricate, lively world of drag that is as touching as it is hilarious.