Day 29: Hedwig and the Angry Inch.

Day 29: Hedwig and the Angry Inch (2001, Dir. John Cameron Mitchell)

Adapted from the popular cult musical, Hedwig and the Angry Inch is a multi-layered tale telling the story of a German transsexual, whose self-styled rock stardom is flailing in 90’s America whilst her protégé, young rocker Tommy Gnosis, rises to stardom. The story is frantic, fun and outrageously camp and will speak volumes to anyone who has ever felt like an outsider, or disenfranchised by their position.

With John Cameron Mitchell writing, starring and directing this film, it really proves to be a labour of love and this compelling enthusiasm really shines throughout. The characters, especially Hedwig get you hooked from the get go on this emotionally fuelled journey.

Gender queering is here dealt with in a rather unique and fascinating matter. Transsexuals can very easily be a point of controversy in films and this of course is no different, however it’s the unique differences in Hedwig’s gender and sexuality which complicate matters over about the topic even further. Having the character being forced into their gender is an interesting twist which raises a great deal of questions in Queer cinema. The East German setting to the characters back story adds a further level of complexity and intrigue, it is especially interesting to see these conflicting gender politics at work in a communist nation.

The music drives the emotional narrative like a classic record, with every song providing a stylish plot point and forwarding the story in a unique and involving way. Though much like any great record there are a few notes that fall flat, notably the country styled song half way through the film feels a bit weird however these gripes aren’t enough to detract the enjoyment you’ll get from the film.

Hedwig and the Angry Inch is an emotional, funny, heart-warming and ultimately uplifting story.

7.5/10

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0248845/

Extra: I challenge you to watch this and not want to listen to Lou Reed…