The world of drag and comedy collide in the latest film sensation, Stop! That! Train!directed by the talented Adam Shankman. This action-packed comedy stars RuPaulGinger Minjand Jujubeealong with a host of other Drag Race favorites and Hollywood icons. Set in the whimsical Drag Race Universethe film is a delightful parody of disaster movies, filled with irreverent humor and unforgettable moments.
The story revolves around the high-speed Glamazonian Expressa luxury train filled with eccentric passengers. When a catastrophic storm dubbed Stormaganza threatens to derail the train, the president of the United States, played by RuPaul, must team up with the train’s stewardesses, Tess (Ginger Minj) and DeeDee (Jujubee), to save the day. The film is a wild ride from start to finish, blending the chaos of Airplane! with the drama of Mean Girls.
The Cast and Characters
The film boasts an impressive cast list, pushing 40 actors, including Hollywood heavyweights like Sarah Michelle GellarNicole Richieand Raven-Symoné. The Drag Race alumni bring their unique charisma and talent to the screen, creating a dynamic ensemble that keeps the audience laughing. Ginger Minj and Jujubee shine as the lovable duo Tess and DeeDee, whose friendship and quick wit are the heart of the film.
RuPaul’s portrayal of President Judy Gagwell is a standout performance. Her presidential pantsuits, reminiscent of Hillary Rodham Clinton and Kamala Harris, add a touch of political satire to the comedy. The film’s memorable visual moments, such as the White House corridor walk-and-talk scene, showcase RuPaul’s comedic timing and the chemistry between the cast members.
The Making of Stop! That! Train!
Director Adam Shankman, known for his work on Hairspray and Disenchantedbrings his unique vision to Stop! That! Train!. The film is a collaborative effort between World of Wonder and Unapologetic Projects, distributed by Bleecker Street. Shankman’s experience choreographing Rusicals on Drag Race provided a solid foundation for directing this off-the-rails comedy.
The film’s origin story begins with a script that Randy Barbato and Fenton Bailey of World of Wonder presented to Shankman. The script’s humor and RuPaul’s enthusiasm for the project compelled Shankman to take on the challenge. Despite the film’s limited budget, the cast and crew worked tirelessly to bring the story to life in just 19 days.
The Themes and Impact
Stop! That! Train! is more than just a comedy; it’s a celebration of diversity and inclusivity. The film centers around drag queens without explicitly addressing drag, allowing the characters to shine based on their talent and charisma. This approach resonates with audiences, making the film accessible to everyone.
The film’s success is a testament to the growing influence of drag culture in mainstream media. As Bailey and Barbato of World of Wonder note, there is a notable lack of wigged representation in modern-day theatrical releases. Stop! That! Train! aims to change that by adding to the canon of beloved drag films like The Rocky Horror Picture Show and Tootsie.
The film’s historic box-office success highlights the demand for diverse storytelling in cinema. As Shankman reflects, the queens’ ability to assimilate into different roles and bring their unique perspectives to the screen is a testament to their talent and versatility. The film’s impact extends beyond entertainment, paving the way for more inclusive and representative storytelling in the future.
