“Your approval is neither desired nor required”- Noxeema Jackson
This quote has stuck with me ever since I watched the 1995 classic To Wong Foo, Thanks For Everything! Julie Newmar. This statement that we, as a community, must instill in our younger generations, especially regarding self-pride. This film highlights the beautiful elements of friendship & tolerance while exploring how developing self-love can benefit us and those around us. It further emphasizes that we as a society are likely to thrive if we simply accept one another.
This movie has undoubtedly been an inspiration for many years, and its influence is seen today, specifically in the media’s embrace of drag culture. A prime example is Ru Paul’s Drag Race, which celebrates similar themes of self-expression and community.
In the film we meet the 10,10,10’s who own Elite Manhattan, Our main Drag queens. Vida Boheme (Patrick Swayze) and Noxeema Jackson (Wesley Snipes) & finally Chi—Chi Rodriguez (John Leguizamo). As a movie watcher I found it ironic how the casting director selected straight men actors for each role. If you’re aware of these actors’ backgrounds, it is obvious to notice how they tend to play these very action-packed & serious characters.
When you look back at this film it sort of warms your heart on how committed they were to bringing the script to life. Patrick, Wesley, & John’s dedication to their performances made this story a joyful matter in our large world of cinema, not only are they having fun… but they look good doing it.
From the very start, the viewers are immersed in this glittering world of Drag fashion, high-top heels, and gorgeous seamstress gowns. The story centers around three drag queens, one of them being Vida Bohem, a charming drag queen who can impress regional judges and wins a trip to nationals for “Drag Of The Year”.
She wins alongside her foxy friend Noxemma Jackson who is known for being effortlessly confident and cynical. During their award ceremony, Vida notices Chi–Chi, a heartbroken contestant who missed out on the opportunity to travel to LA. In a generous act, Vida and Noxeema kindly allow Chi—Chi to join them on their trip to Los Angeles.
They Fund this trip by selling their plane tickets and using the money for a country round road trip. However, because of poor planning, the trio find themselves stranded in a small coastal town. Through their time there Vida, Noxeema, & Chi-Chi inspire the townspeople, helping them gain courage creating a greater understanding of love and acceptance, and teaching that being bolder than others does not mean you should shy away from what makes you, you.
Chi-Chi, known for her sass and bravado, plays a crucial role in encouraging her fellow queens to embrace their true selves to the townsfolk. The film explores the journey from a supportive environment to a more challenging one, where the queens help empower the women and educate the town’s men about basic respect. Despite moments of conflict, for example, being cat-chased by a homophobic police officer, the storyline keeps you thoroughly engaged. Not only is this movie able to successfully grasp and represent the beautiful elements of LGBTQ+ culture, but it’s also an incredibly useful medium that helps promote understanding.
The movie is not only heartwarming but also educational. It teaches viewers about respect and open-mindedness, It highlights how challenging it can be for people to express their beliefs often due to fear. To Wong Foo, Thanks For Everything! Julie Newmar illustrates how bravery and confidence can empower others, regardless of age or gender. If you’re looking for a film that offers comedic relief, sweet moments of friendship, and lots & lots of fashion inspiration… Grab a bowl of popcorn and watch the triumph that is Patrick Swayze kicking ass while dressed in drag.
