Exotic World and the Burlesque Revival

Exotic World and the Burlesque Revival is a captivating documentary film that premiered in the summer of 2011. Directed by award-winning filmmaker Red Tremmel, this film sheds light on the exotic world of burlesque and the compelling story of its revival. It delves into burlesque’s illustrious past, its almost near disappearance during the mid-1970s, and its rebirth to enter the mainstream lexicon.

In the leading roles, you will meet the charming and talented Miss Indigo Blue, an eminent burlesque performer, and comedian Margaret Cho, who is known for her bold and daring stand-up acts. These leading ladies bring their charisma, talent, and dynamism to encapsulate the vital essence of burlesque, a genre that skillfully intertwines theater, dance, and titillating humor.

The heart, or rather, the soul of the documentary rests on Dixie Evans, an alluring burlesque stripper from the golden age, and the owner of the Exotic World museum. Known as the “Marilyn Monroe of Burlesque,” Dixie played a crucial role in reviving the art form, primarily through her creation of the Miss Exotic World pageant, a competition intended to foster the rebirth of burlesque.

Red Tremmel’s diligent camera follows Dixie from the time she moves her collection from the remote desert of Helendale, also known as Exotic World, to the bustling city of Las Vegas, marking the shift of the burlesque world from vintage to contemporary. Dixie's goal is not merely to sustain her museum, but also to inspire a new generation to further revive the tradition and keep the art alive.

Exotic World and the Burlesque Revival weaves a fascinating narrative that unveils the glitz and glamour of the seductive world of burlesque, embodying the power of self-expression, body acceptance, and the female spirit. Though the documentary is primarily about an incredibly vibrant and empowering art form, it is also an elegiac tribute to Dixie Evans and her love for burlesque as she strives to pass on the torch to a newer generation.

Through the lens, viewers will get an up-close look at the burlesque’s revival, as seen through the eyes of the artists who’re battling their way back into mainstream acknowledgment. Notable figures from the modern burlesque explosion like Miss Indigo Blue, an iconic performer and instructor of the craft, bring palpable energy and passion to the screen.

Also present in the narrative is the comedian Margaret Cho, who rather than being on stage, is included as a renowned burlesque advocate. With her keen wit, Cho contributes a deeper understanding of the cultural implications of burlesque, highlighting how it challenges conventional norms of body image, sex, and femininity.

One of the most compelling aspects of the film is its exploration of burlesque as an art form, and how it has evolved over the years. With the use of captivating diary-style segments, archival footage, intimate interviews, the documentary shows its audience the dedication, work, and raw talent that goes into every performance, from elaborate costume design to intricate choreographed routines.

Exotic World and the Burlesque Revival goes beyond the feathers, the glitter, and the seductive guise to show the power, resilience, and force behind each burlesque artist. It offers a valuable glimpse into the art’s parallels with the women’s movement by focusing on its political and social significance.

In the span of its running time, this documentary serves not only as an engaging and informative exploration of the world of burlesque, but also as a powerful and touching narrative about the artists who have dedicated their lives to this mesmerizing art form. It is a love letter to the world of burlesque and a testament to the feminist ideals that the genre continues to uphold.

Exotic World and the Burlesque Revival is entertaining, enlightening, and emotionally powerful. It strikes the perfect balance, offering an incisive exploration of burlesque while also remaining wildly entertaining and visually enticing. By the end of the movie, you may find yourself seeing burlesque in a different, and perhaps more appreciative, light.