Five “Fabulous” Films To Start 2015

By Nico Stoerner

BEAR CITY

Gained some holiday weight? Still going at it? Well grab the ice cream and popcorn and enjoy a hearty dose of comedy while you cuddle up in a blanket this winter. Covering a range of emotional topics including personal health to monogamy — and even sex among age-discordant couples — this film will definitely have you feeling “warm and fuzzy.” As fresh today as it was five years ago, it’s a winner this time of year. What’s more: “Bear City 2” is just as fun!

BEGINNERS

This drama will tug at your heartstrings making you laugh until you cry. Through its depiction of two different love stories, the movie paints the picture of a single family with captivating cinematography. A fantastic example of the challenges and triumphs of coming out at a more mature age in the present day, as well as the relationship between father and son, this film and its carefully-constructed narrative of an older man coming out will offer perspective to any and all…and with the creative talents of Christopher Plummer, Ewan McGregor, and Melanie Laurent, there’s no shortage of talent.

PRIDE: THE GAY AND LESBIAN COMEDY SLAM


Funny-man Bruce Vilanch hosts this epic comedy slam showcasing the talents of other great comedians and comediennes in the industry including Alec Mapa, Poppy Champlin, Sandra Valls, and Scott Kennedy. Showcasing gay as well as lesbian talent, these folks will have you doubled over with laughter and keep your spirits high even in the lowest temps — that alone is worth the watch.

PARIS IS BURNING

If you haven’t seen it yet, here is your “herstory” lesson for the season! This film explains the origins of countless examples of gay culture, from the start of “voguing” to the structure of drag houses and the club scene. It’s more than a spectacle — it’s a testimony to substitute families through drag houses, the allure of club culture, and the starlets who trail blazed the way for the gay community.

GIRLS WILL BE GIRLS

If you know drag queens, chances are you’ve at least heard of Coco Peru (NYC drag) and Varla Jean Merman (of Provincetown). This fantastic movie lampooning the dramatic lives and behavior of drag queens offers tons of laughs and dark humor. Coco, Varla, and Evie (played by Jack Plotnick) set out to find fame, fortune, and love even as they struggle to make ends meet in their three-bedroom bungalow. A great example of classic drag a la “men playing women,” the camp of this film alone is reason enough to queue it up and enjoy the fun.