Movie spotlight
Stormé: Lady of the Jewel Box
“It ain’t easy…being green” is the favorite expression of Stormé DeLarverie, a woman whose life flouted prescriptions of gender and race. During the 1950s and '60s she toured the black theater circuit as a mistress of ceremonies and the sole male impersonator of the legendary Jewel Box Revue, America’s first integrated female impersonation show and forerunner of La Cage aux Folles.
Insights
Plot Summary
This documentary explores the life and activism of Stormé DeLarverie, a biracial butch lesbian icon. It delves into her experiences as a performer, MC, and activist, highlighting her role in galvanizing the LGBTQ+ community, particularly during the Stonewall Uprising. The film showcases her charisma and enduring impact on lesbian and queer culture.
Critical Reception
Stormé: Lady of the Jewel Box was well-received for its powerful portrayal of a significant queer figure and its contribution to documenting lesbian history. Critics praised its raw honesty and DeLarverie's magnetic presence, recognizing it as an important piece of feminist and LGBTQ+ cinema.
What Reviewers Say
Praised for its intimate and compelling portrait of an iconic lesbian figure.
Celebrated for its historical significance in documenting LGBTQ+ activism and culture.
Recognized for Stormé DeLarverie's captivating performance and powerful voice.
Google audience: Audience reception information for this documentary is not readily available through standard Google review aggregations.
Fun Fact
Stormé DeLarverie is widely credited with throwing the first punch during the Stonewall Uprising, though she herself famously stated, 'I didn't throw the first punch, I was in the crowd and I had been beaten before, and I was not going to be beaten again.'
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