‘Big Easy Queens,’ a unique horror movie featuring a cast of drag queens, is making waves in the film industry. This latest venture combines the elements of horror — think zombies and gristle — with the flamboyance of glitter, all set to a backdrop of original music. The talented cast, including Eric Swanson (Miss Bouvèé), Benjamin Shaevitz, Jennifer McClain, and Matthew Darren, brings a fresh perspective to the genre.
A Soundtrack of Originality and Strength
One of the film’s standout features is its all-new original music. Eric Swanson, who plays a leading role, emphasizes the film’s commitment to showcasing drag queens and queer men in robust, leading roles. “Every note is original in this film,” Swanson shared with PRIDE, highlighting the film’s innovative approach to storytelling and character development.
Director Erynn Dalton’s Vision for Uplifting LGBTQ+ Voices
Director Erynn Dalton aimed to celebrate and uplift the LGBTQ+ community through ‘Big Easy Queens.’ Dalton ensured that the entire filmmaking process was imbued with joy, stating, “It’s just really fun. It’s a great combination of camp, horror, blood, wigs falling off! We really didn’t hold back with it.”
Filming Amidst Anti-LGBTQ+ Laws
Interestingly, while ‘Big Easy Queens’ is set in New Orleans, it was filmed in Florida, a state currently grappling with the introduction of anti-LGBTQ+ laws. Despite these challenges, Swanson and Dalton felt supported by the community, particularly during the film’s premiere at the Popcorn Frights festival in Florida, where drag queens performed defiantly in the face of anti-drag legislation.
Festival Circuit and Future Aspirations
As 2023 draws to a close, ‘Big Easy Queens’ continues to screen at various film festivals, including an upcoming performance at the Fort Lauderdale International Film Festival. Swanson hopes the film will not only entertain but also inspire audiences to embrace their queerness fearlessly. He envisions a future where the film reaches a global audience through streaming services, making it accessible to those who may not have the same opportunities to view such content.
Conclusion: A Horror Film with a Heart
‘Big Easy Queens’ stands out as a testament to the creativity and resilience of the LGBTQ+ community. Its blend of horror, humor, and heartfelt representation marks a significant step towards more inclusive storytelling in cinema. The film’s journey through festivals and its potential for broader distribution signals a new era of diverse and empowering narratives in the film industry.
