Studio One: A Hilariously Heartfelt Journey Through Queer History
Welcome to the wild and wonderful world of Studio One, where the beats were hot, the outfits were even hotter, and the dance floors were a veritable runway for the fabulous and fierce! Picture this: West Hollywood in the 70s to the 90s, a time when disco balls reigned supreme and glitter was basically the currency of love. This documentary takes us through the rise of a little spot that became the epicenter of queer nightlife and a battleground for LGBTQ rights, all while serving us some serious side-splitting moments.
As the lights dimmed and the music blared, we’re introduced to the colorful cast of characters who frequented Studio One. There’s the sassy drag queen who could flip a wig faster than you can say “fabulous,” and let’s not forget the dance battles that were so intense, they could have been Olympic events. Seriously, if there were medals for shimmying, these folks would have been draped in gold!
The documentary dives deep into the history of the club, which was more than just a place to bust a move. It was a sanctuary where LGBTQ folks could express themselves freely, even if that expression sometimes involved questionable fashion choices (we’re looking at you, neon spandex!). But amidst the glitter and glam, the film doesn’t shy away from the serious stuff. Cue the dramatic music! The AIDS crisis looms over the narrative like an uninvited guest at a fabulous party, and we see how Studio One became a rallying point for activism. Spoiler alert: the fight was fierce, and the community came together in ways that would make even the most hardened heart swell with pride.
Now, let’s talk about the stars of the show: the patrons! There’s a moment where one particularly flamboyant dancer attempts a split that can only be described as “ambitious.” Spoiler: they end up on the floor, but not before giving us a classic “I meant to do that” pose! The laughter is infectious, and you can almost hear the collective “Ooh!” from the audience as they witness this glorious fail.
And then there’s the legendary parties! The documentary gives us a front-row seat to the wildest nights, complete with confetti showers, dance-offs that would make “Dancing with the Stars” look like child’s play, and enough sequins to blind a person. Just when you think it can’t get any wilder, the film throws in a surprise guest appearance by a famous pop star who, let’s just say, took the stage like they owned it. Cue the dramatic gasps!
In a touching twist, the film wraps up by honoring those we lost to the AIDS crisis, highlighting the resilience of the community. It’s a poignant reminder that while Studio One was a place of joy and celebration, it also stood as a testament to love and loss. The final scene is a group of friends raising a glass in remembrance, and you can practically hear the “cheers” echoing through the decades.
So, if you’re looking for a documentary that’s equal parts laugh-out-loud funny and heartwarming, Studio One is your ticket to ride. Just be prepared for a rollercoaster of emotions, a few cringeworthy dance moves, and an overwhelming desire to don your best disco attire. Trust me, you’ll be saying, “Yaaas, queen!” before the credits roll!