
Movie spotlight
Bette Midler's Mondo Beyondo
In this spoof of a television talk show, Midler portrays the Italian bombshell hostess, Mondo Beyondo. Her guests include monologuist David Cale; Bill Irwin, mime, comedian and clown; and the bizarre Kipper Kids.
Insights
Plot Summary
A surreal and campy musical special featuring Bette Midler in her element. The film showcases Midler's dynamic stage persona through a series of eclectic musical numbers and vaudevillian skits. It also includes performances by iconic underground artists like Klaus Nomi and Divine, celebrating avant-garde performance art and Bette Midler's unique brand of entertainment.
Critical Reception
As a cult classic and a showcase for Bette Midler's early, flamboyant artistry, 'Mondo Beyondo' is highly regarded by fans of camp and experimental performance art. While not a mainstream critical darling, its unique aesthetic and bold performances have cemented its status as a memorable piece of LGBTQ+ and performance history.
What Reviewers Say
Praised for its outrageous and fearless performances.
Celebrated for its groundbreaking visual style and camp sensibility.
Seen as a significant artifact of underground performance art and queer culture.
Google audience: Information on Google user reviews for 'Bette Midler's Mondo Beyondo' is not readily available, but it is generally appreciated by fans of Bette Midler's avant-garde work and cult cinema.
Fun Fact
The special was conceived as a vehicle for Bette Midler to showcase her particular brand of theatricality and performance art, drawing heavily on the avant-garde and drag scenes she was associated with in her early career.
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