Kinky Boots

 

This weekend, I broke out that insensibly long list of movies I plan to watch in my lifetime and was able to cross Kinky Boots off. I wouldn't say it's particularly groundbreaking in terms of theme, but it was just so heartwarming that I couldn't help but love it. Typically, (although I know not know judge a book by its cover) I don't give movies about drag queens too much attention. Don't get me wrong, I am fascinated by drag and personally love a good episode of Ru Paul's namesake show, but there's something about movies focused on Drag Queens that seem to aim for more of a SHOCK FACTOR that is unappealing to me.

 

Even in Kinky Boots I best loved Simon/Lola when he was able to embrace both the masculine and feminine side of his sexuality. (Reference: Arm Wrestling Scene) 

Oh and a little side note, apparently Cyndi Lauper is helping to make the movie into a musical.  I'm not gunna lie, I'm a little curious to see how it is. 

From a clothes standpoint, of course I was yet again fawning over Simon's wardrobe. I was absolutely obsessed with his heavy, cable-knit turtleneck (shown above), and his floral print shirts! So in love. Lola had some choice pieces, but aside from her more day-to-day looks, it was a bit much for me. I will say that Chiwetel Ejiofor's body (esp. BICEPS & TRICEPS) looked amazing in those sequin dresses. (So, I didn't really understand the cracks at his "wrinkly arms"- if you watch the movie)

 I hate to sound corny and so typical when talking about a movie with drag queens or just "outcasts" in general (like the main character Charlie Price), but I did appreciate the (although extremely cliche) overarching message of being comfortable with who you are, understanding your worth as an individual in society, being fabulous, fearless and bold blah blah blah.

The movie was pretty predictable, but in my opinion, that doesn't take away from the movie. I also happen to be a sucker for British film, television and the humor that comes along with it (well make that, just Britain in general..). There weren't too many quotable moments, and I found myself struggling over what to tweet about this movie - *shakes head* so lame - because most of the humor was in characters' body language and interactions. It was hilarious, okay? I just wanted to share some of joy with others.

Also, the music in this movie was just so spot on. So maybe I'm crazy for literal and figurative connections within a work, but the lyrics! the lyrics! Also, Lola KILLS IT!

And considering the topics/messages of Kinky Boots and the fact that I mentioned Cyndi Lauper earlier, it's only fitting that I add a song from her too.