The Queen

The Queen is an enlightening and riveting documentary released in 1968 that draws back the curtain on a subculture within the LGBTQ+ community during a time when the subject of homosexuality was still largely taboo. The film, directed by Frank Simon, stands as an historical artifact of that period in time and effectively captures the energy, camaraderie, and defiance within the underground drag scene.

The movie features performers and activists such as Bernard Giquel, Jack Doroshow, Jim Dine, and many others who were pioneers of their era, daring to be unabashedly true to themselves despite societal pressures. Notably, the film chronicles the preparations and unfolding of the 1967 Miss All-America Camp Beauty Pageant, a national drag queen contest held in New York City, showcasing the event in full flamboyant glory and introducing viewers to a fascinating world they might otherwise never see.

Its lead character and emcee of the pageant, Jack Doroshow widely known as Flawless Sabrina, charms the audience with his audacious persona and heartfelt honesty. Bernard Giquel adds depth to the cast as well with his portrayal of real-life finalist Harlow. Jim Dine appears in a supporting role, further fleshing out the vibrant ensemble.

The Queen provides an eye-opening insight into the competitive nature of these pageants, the artistry of drag, and the personal narratives of the individuals involved, making it more than just a simple beauty contest. It's a vivid documentation of the dreams, joys, anxieties, and struggles of these early drag performers.

What makes this film remarkable for its time is that it unabashedly captures the spirit of a then obscure and marginalized community, boldly showcasing raw footage of behind-the-scenes preparations for the pageant, in-depth interviews with the contestants, and the full splendor of the performance stage. Simon's unvarnished portrayal profoundly humanizes these individuals, often seen through a lens of misunderstanding and prejudice.

For those unaccustomed to this subculture, the allure lies in the striking transformations and theatricalities the performers bring to stage. They slip into their personas with extravagant costumes and striking makeup, stepping into the spotlight to an exhilarating mix of applause, laughter, and occasionally, disdain. However, behind the glitz and glam, the movie highlights these characters dealing with the pervasive homophobia, police harassment, and other challenges of the time.

Another engaging aspect of the movie is its nuanced exploration of the relationships among the contestants. While the competition is fierce, a sense of camaraderie and sisterhood is also present, creating a complex emotional landscape that renders the film both moving and engaging. Likewise, their personal narratives and experiences serve to create a multifaceted perspective on their lives, offering profound commentary on gender, sexuality, and identity.

The Queen ends up being a daring, compassionate, and insightful peek into this captivating world, predating and in many ways setting the stage for future narratives around drag culture. Even after more than five decades, the issues and themes the film tackles remain relevant, making it a timeless piece for viewers interested in LGBTQ+ history or simply a fascinating cultural artifact.

In conclusion, The Queen is more than just a documentary. It's an album of storied lives, a spectacle of artistry, and a testament to resilience. It invites audiences to challenge their preconceptions, to celebrate the diversity of human experience, and to witness a world that, in 1968, was bravely stepping into the spotlight. The Queen is a true gem of film history, offering a poignant, humorous, and deeply human depiction of an undervalued facet of American culture.