Release Year: 2006
Synopsis:
Charmed Life (2006), directed by Katherine Delaney, is a documentary that captures the vibrant and often misunderstood world of drag performers, offering an intimate look into the artistry, skill, and resilience required to transcend gender and challenge societal norms. Through moving interviews with figures like Dwayne Cooper, Keith Levy, Daniel T. 'Sweetie' Boothe, and others, the documentary explores the personal and political dimensions of drag performance, underscoring the deep connection between art, identity, and resistance. At the heart of this documentary is a central question that continues to echo in the minds of both performers and viewers: what is so controversial about a man in a dress?
From the very first scenes, Charmed Life emphasizes that drag is not merely a performance for entertainment but a complex art form that requires a unique set of skills, from makeup artistry and costume design to dance, comedic timing, and emotional depth. The documentary introduces its audience to drag queens who have made their mark not only by embodying femininity but by transforming it into something bold and transformative. As one of the queens in the film aptly puts it, “Any clown can put on a dress, but they’re not going to be around for a long time.” This statement speaks to the core of the documentary’s message—that drag is an art form rooted in mastery and technique, not just surface-level appearance. Drag queens such as Dwayne Cooper, Keith Levy, and Daniel T. Boothe are featured in candid interviews, reflecting on the commitment it takes to perform drag in a way that transcends mere mimicry, instead challenging societal norms and making a lasting impact.
