Watch Just About Famous

Just About Famous is a 2015 documentary film that explores the world of celebrity impersonators. The film follows the lives of several professional impersonators as they share their experiences of working in an industry that is simultaneously entertaining, competitive, and precarious. The film provides an insightful look into the art of impersonation and the people who make a living out of it.

The film opens with shots of impersonators on a busy street corner in Las Vegas, setting the scene for a world where iconic figures like Elvis Presley, Marilyn Monroe, and Michael Jackson are brought to life by skilled performers. Through a series of interviews, we meet several impersonators and learn about their backgrounds, motivations, and challenges.

One of the main subjects of the film is Charlie Franks, an Elvis Presley impersonator who has been performing for over 20 years. Franks is a charming and charismatic performer who has worked in numerous theme parks and Las Vegas shows. He talks about how he got into the business and the challenges of maintaining the physical and vocal likeness of the King of Rock and Roll.

Another subject of the film is John Morgan, a George W. Bush impersonator who has gained national attention for his accurate portrayal of the former president. Morgan discusses how he developed his impersonation and the unexpected opportunities that have come as a result, such as appearing on national television shows and even meeting the real George W. Bush.

The film also follows Dale Leigh, an impersonator of Barbra Streisand who has faced numerous challenges as a trans woman in a field that is often resistant to diversity. Leigh talks about how her identity has affected her career and how she has used her platform to advocate for greater acceptance and understanding.

Throughout the film, we also see footage of the performers in action, from weddings and corporate events to shows on stages big and small. The filmmakers do an excellent job of capturing the energy and excitement of these performances, while also illustrating the behind-the-scenes work that goes into creating a convincing impersonation.

The film also touches on some of the ethical questions surrounding impersonation. For example, one Elvis impersonator talks about the negative aspects of performing as a figure who had a complicated personal life and struggles with addiction. Others lament how impersonation can perpetuate stereotypes and shallow representations of famous figures.

Overall, Just About Famous is a fascinating and entertaining look into a world that many people may not have thought about before. The performers featured in the film are all talented and passionate about their craft, and the film does an excellent job of letting them tell their own stories. Through their experiences, we gain insight into the complexities of celebrity culture, the challenges of the entertainment industry, and the power of performance to connect people in unexpected ways.

Just About Famous is a 2015 comedy with a runtime of 1 hour and 35 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.9.