The Cockettes
The Cockettes

Movie spotlight

The Cockettes

2002
Movie
100 min
English

Documentary about the gender-bending San Francisco performance group who became a pop culture phenomenon in the early 1970s.

Insights

IMDb6.8/10
Rotten Tomatoes74%
Metacritic60/100
Google Users80%
Director: Susie Bright (as director of anthology), David Weissman (as director of documentary)Genres: Documentary, Musical

Plot Summary

This documentary chronicles the rise and fall of The Cockettes, a San Francisco-based psychedelic drag troupe that exploded onto the counterculture scene in the early 1970s. The film features archival footage and interviews with surviving members, delving into their extravagant performances, communal living, and eventual dissolution.

Critical Reception

The documentary received generally positive reviews, with critics praising its vibrant portrayal of a unique cultural phenomenon and its insightful look into the lives of the performers. However, some noted that the film could feel a bit unfocused at times.

What Reviewers Say

  • Celebrates the flamboyant and anarchic spirit of the legendary San Francisco drag troupe.

  • Offers a colorful and often poignant look at a unique chapter of counterculture history.

  • The film effectively captures the energy and ethos of The Cockettes, though sometimes at the expense of narrative cohesion.

Google audience: Google users largely appreciated the documentary for its energetic and often humorous depiction of the Cockettes' wild performances and lifestyle. Reviewers frequently cited the film's unique characters and the fascinating historical context as highlights.

Fun Fact

The Cockettes' legendary New Year's Eve performance in 1971, 'Pearls Over Shibuya,' was attended by filmmaker John Waters, who was deeply inspired by their work.

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