Watch Jamie: Drag Queen at 16

Jamie: Drag Queen at 16 is a British film from 2011 that tells the story of Jamie, a 16-year-old boy who wants to be a drag queen. Jamie is played by Jamie Campbell, who is himself a young drag artist. Despite the opposition of his father, the bullies at his school, and even some of his close friends, Jamie is determined to pursue his dream of becoming a drag queen.

At the beginning of the film, Jamie is seen as a relatively normal teenager, attending school and spending time with his supportive mother and best friend, Dean. However, he is increasingly drawn to the glittering world of drag, and he spends his time watching videos of drag performances, experimenting with makeup, and dreaming of one day performing himself. Jamie's father, Wayne, is less than pleased with his son's aspirations, and the two clash over Jamie's desire to wear makeup and dress in women's clothing.

One of the key themes of Jamie: Drag Queen at 16 is the idea that gender is a performance, and that people should be free to express themselves in any way they choose. Jamie's character is an excellent example of this, as he defies traditional gender norms by dressing in drag and performing as a glamorous diva. The film portrays Jamie's journey as a coming-of-age story, showing how he learns to be true to himself and stand up for what he believes in.

The acting in Jamie: Drag Queen at 16 is excellent, particularly in the case of Jill Halfpenny, who plays Jamie's mother, Margaret. Halfpenny brings a warmth and sensitivity to the role, and her scenes with Jamie are some of the film's most moving. Campbell, too, is impressive in his first acting role, conveying both Jamie's vulnerability and his fierce determination. The film's supporting cast is also strong, with notable performances from Sophie Ellerby as Jamie's spunky friend Pritti, Ryan Saunders as the cruel bully Dean, and Craig Slater as Jamie's kind-hearted mentor Hugo.

One of the most striking aspects of Jamie: Drag Queen at 16 is its visual style. Director Jenny Popplewell uses bold, bright colors and fancy camera angles to create a sense of flamboyance and glamour. The film's drag performances are particularly effective, with Jamie and his fellow performers strutting their stuff in glittering costumes and towering wigs. The film's music is also excellent, with catchy pop songs and dramatic ballads adding to the film's sense of energy and emotion.

Jamie: Drag Queen at 16 is not just a film about drag, but a film about acceptance, friendship, and the importance of standing up for oneself. Though it deals with serious themes such as homophobia and transphobia, the film never becomes preachy or heavy-handed. Instead, it balances its serious moments with humor and heart, resulting in a movie that is both entertaining and thought-provoking.

In conclusion, Jamie: Drag Queen at 16 is a fantastic film that deserves to be seen by a wide audience. Its uplifting message of self-expression and acceptance is much-needed in today's world, and its talented cast and stylish direction make it a joy to watch. Whether you're a fan of drag or simply looking for a feel-good movie that celebrates individuality, Jamie: Drag Queen at 16 is definitely worth checking out.

Jamie: Drag Queen at 16 is a 2011 documentary with a runtime of 56 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.5.