Queendom Reviews (original) (raw)
Summary In defiance of Russia's anti-LGTBQ laws, a queer, 21-year-old artist risks her life performing in surreal costumes throughout Moscow. Jenna Marvin's radical public performances blend artistry and activism.
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Summary In defiance of Russia's anti-LGTBQ laws, a queer, 21-year-old artist risks her life performing in surreal costumes throughout Moscow. Jenna Marvin's radical public performances blend artistry and activism.
Thankfully, “Queendom” is not a dull documentary on a fascinating subject.
It’s hard to understand the emotions coursing through Marvin’s body, as it’s wrapped in gaffer tape or barbed wire in a series of improvised exercises in fashion-as-armour. She admits to fear, but never to doubt as she embarks on her single-minded mission to subvert Russia's remorselessly anti-LGBTQ+ agenda.
As Gena attempts to live an authentic life in a place which is dangerously prejudiced against her, so Queendom takes shape as a damning portrait of state-sanctioned intolerance and suppression.
Ultimately, as Agniia Galdanova’s remarkable observational documentary shows, Gena is her own extraordinary creation.
I would have liked to hear more about Gena’s late mother and the family history generally, but this is an arresting portrait.
A devastating, urgent reminder that art can be dangerous and important and political and powerful — especially in ten-inch heels.
It’s hard to understand the emotions coursing through Marvin’s body, as it’s wrapped in gaffer tape or barbed wire in a series of improvised exercises in fashion-as-armour. She admits to fear, but never to doubt as she embarks on her single-minded mission to subvert Russia's remorselessly anti-LGBTQ+ agenda.
Production Company Doc Society, Inmaat Productions, Sundance Institute, Vancouver Film School
Release Date Jun 14, 2024
Duration 1 h 38 m
Tagline With the help of a drag queen, a young introverted and intellectual woman enters the world of Burlesque on a journey of self-discovery.
Zurich Film Festival
• 2 Wins & 3 Nominations
LesGaiCineMad, Madrid International LGBT Film Festival
• 2 Wins & 2 Nominations
Munich Film Festival
• 1 Win & 2 Nominations