Get ready to sing along
Imagine the visual flair and frenetic energy of a Baz Luhrmann (Elvis, Moulin Rouge) epic, combined with the heartfelt, dream-chasing romance of a Damien Chazelle (La La Land) film, all sprinkled with a fabulous dose of “oh so gay” sparkles and set to the infectious tunes of the Indigo Girls. This dazzling concoction is Glitter & Doom, the latest cinematic gem from director Tom Gustafson, starring the charismatic duo of Alex Diaz and Alan Cammish.
Get ready to dive into a whirlwind of glitter and glamor with Glitter & Doom, a film that's as bold and visionary as it is deliciously nostalgic. Director Tom Gustafson serves up a visual feast that's sure to leave you craving more, with a presentation that feels like a Millennial wish fulfilled.
From the moment the film begins, you find yourself transported to a world where sensibilities and aesthetics collide in a riot of color and emotion. It's a journey that will tickle the nostalgia centers of your mind, teasing memories of a time when life was simpler and dreams were bigger.
But Glitter & Doom is more than just a trip down memory lane; it's a celebration of queer existence and yearning. Unlike traditional queer cinema that often focuses on tragedy and hardship, this film flips the script and presents a story that is unabashedly and unapologetically queer. It's a breath of fresh air in a genre that's all too often brought down by “kill your gay” clichés and stereotypes.
At the heart of the story are two unlikely heroes: Glitter, raised from wealth with a passion for clowning and dreams of becoming a professional trained circus clown; and Doom, a tortured musician who longs for his big break who is armed with songs that are deemed too depressing. As they navigate the challenges of following their dreams while grappling with family expectations and personal demons, their journeys unfold against the backdrop of a soundtrack provided by the iconic Indigo Girls.
What sets this tale apart is its exploration of the unexpected bond that forms between Glitter and Doom. Despite their seemingly opposite backgrounds and aspirations, they discover that they are stronger together than they could ever be alone.
Alex Diaz shines as Glitter, infusing the character with a delightful blend of whimsy and depth, while Alan Cammish delivers a captivating performance as the brooding yet charming Doom. Cammish also showcases his vocals astoundingly well in the majority of the musical numbers, giving off a charming yet brooding exterior that’s haunted by a troubled past.
Director Tom Gustafson crafts a fast paced and kaleidoscopic world where every scene bursts with color and energy against the backdrop of lush landscapes, which span from Mexico to the heart of the United States. From dusty back alleys to serene Midwest farms, Gustafson transforms ordinary settings into whimsical playgrounds ripe for adventure.
But perhaps the most enchanting aspect of Glitter & Doom is its exploration of a world where being gay is not only accepted but celebrated. Through its vibrant characters and imaginative storytelling, the film poses thought-provoking questions about identity, acceptance and the power of love to transcend boundaries.
It’s a film that lets its audience dive head first into a realm of “what ifs.” What if being gay wasn't a big deal? What if it was simply part of the everyday tapestry of life? These questions linger in the air as Gustafson invites audiences to ponder a world where acceptance reigns supreme and love knows no bounds.
Other than the two leads, standouts include legendary actress Ming-Na Wen, who plays Glitter’s mother and has the loving and practical nurturing instinct, no matter what gender identity or sexuality they identify with. Ming-Na Wen’s performance, alongside cute surprise cameos from notable personalities, amp up the classic camp factor that will surely resonate to members of the LGBTQIA+ community. This goes without saying that fans of the Indigo Girls will surely be in for a trip down memory lane and an acoustic feast for the ears.
As we dive into Pride 2024, Glitter & Doom sets the stage with its infectious energy and unapologetic celebration of queerness. It's not just wish fulfillment, it's a glimpse into a future where every queer individual can live their truth without fear or hesitation.
So grab your popcorn and get ready for a cinematic journey like no other. Glitter & Doom is a celebration of life, love and the pursuit of happiness; a film that will leave you laughing, crying and tapping your toes to the beat of its infectious melodies. Don't miss out on this dazzling spectacle that you won't soon forget.
Glitter & Doom opens June 5 exclusive at Ayala Malls Cinemas. Check www.sureseats.com for schedules and tickets/seats purchase.
Words Charles Boswell
