As we come to the end of June and another Pride Month we think there is no better way to celebrate than with a fabulous LGBTQ themed movie musical marathon night! The following list of queer movie musicals is a vibrant, colorful tapestry of films that celebrate identity, love, and the journey to self-acceptance. They not only entertain us but also serve as powerful cultural statements, reflecting and advancing societal attitudes towards our LGBTQ community. Each one is a beautiful example of the power of music and storytelling in fostering empathy, understanding, and of course pride. So phones off, popcorn ready and let’s sit back and enjoy together these six sensational queer movie musicals this Pride Month.
THE ROCKY HORROR PICTURE SHOW (1975)
Only a few films can reach the cult status of THE ROCKY HORROR PICTURE SHOW. Directed by Jim Sharman and based on the stage musical by Richard O'Brien, this film is a campy, outrageous romp that celebrates non-conformity and sexual freedom. With Tim Curry’s iconic performance as Dr. Frank-N-Furter, the movie challenged traditional gender roles and became a beacon for those of us who felt different. Who do we petition to have a midnight screening here at Playhouse Square next Halloween?
HEDWIG AND THE ANGRY INCH (2001)
HEDWIG AND THE ANGRY INCH, directed by and starring John Cameron Mitchell, is a queer movie musical that tells the story of Hedwig Robinson, a transgender punk rock singer from East Berlin. The film, based on the stage musical of the same name, combines a compelling narrative with a powerful rock soundtrack that delves deep into themes of identity, love, and the quest for wholeness.
RENT (2005)
For the millennials among us, the 2005 screen adaptation of Jonathan Larson’s RENT was that guiding light for all of us outsiders and queer kids. RENT the movie musical brought the struggles and triumphs of a diverse group of friends living in New York City’s East Village to the big screen. This adaptation of the Broadway hit musical deals with hard-hitting themes of HIV & AIDS, poverty, and LGBTQ relationships. The beloved character of Angel, is particularly notable for her positive and life-affirming LGBTQ representation. The film, directed by Chris Columbus, retains the powerful message of love and acceptance that made the original stage version a landmark in queer theater.
PRISCILLA (1994)
Possibly one of the lesser known movie musicals on our list but no less fabulous THE ADVENTURES OF PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT or PRISCILLA as it's known is a must-see this Pride Month and every month really! The Australian musical comedy-drama, directed by Stephan Elliott, follows two drag queens and a transgender woman as they embark on a road trip across the Australian Outback on a tour bus they name Priscilla. This queer movie musical is a heartwarming and humorous exploration of friendship, identity, and resilience as well as a stunning showcase of high camp costuming at its finest! Can we take a moment for the wonderful wigs!?
KINKY BOOTS (2005)
Based on a true story, KINKY BOOTS tells the tale of a struggling shoe factory that finds success by catering to a niche market: footwear for drag queens. The film, directed by Julian Jarrold, stars Chiwetel Ejiofor as Lola, a fabulous drag queen who helps revitalize the failing factory. The musical numbers and performances highlight themes of acceptance and the courage to be oneself. The success of the original film later inspired a Tony Award-winning stage musical version with music by Cyndi Lauper.
THE PROM (2020)
Ryan Murphy’s THE PROM, adapted from the Broadway musical of the same name, is a joyous and heartfelt celebration of inclusivity. The story follows a lesbian high school student who wants to take her girlfriend to prom but faces resistance from the community in her conservative hometown. With a star-studded cast including Meryl Streep, Nicole Kidman and musical theater maven Ariana DeBose, vibrant musical numbers, and a message of love and acceptance, THE PROM is without question a wonderful addition to the queer movie musical family.
From all of us at Playhouse Square we hope you had a happy Pride Month. We’ll leave you with the immortal words of THE PRODUCERS Roger De Bris “keep it happy, keep it snappy, keep it gay.”