Darienne Lake: Altered Boy (2023)

Review Team

4/5

Darienne Lake: Altered Boy is a delightful and engaging documentary that captures the essence of its subject with both humour and depth. Directed by Brian Volk-Weiss, the film intertwines Darienne Lake’s personal anecdotes with her journey as a drag queen, drawing the audience into her world. The na ... Show more >> Darienne Lake: Altered Boy is a delightful and engaging documentary that captures the essence of its subject with both humour and depth. Directed by Brian Volk-Weiss, the film intertwines Darienne Lake’s personal anecdotes with her journey as a drag queen, drawing the audience into her world. The narrative flows effortlessly, revealing her experiences growing up in a large Catholic family and the challenges she faced when coming out. The film's strength lies in its ability to balance laughter with poignant moments, providing a glimpse into the importance of finding one’s chosen family. Darienne’s charisma shines throughout, making her stories relatable and impactful. The cinematography complements her vibrant personality, showcasing the colourful aspects of her life and career. While it may not appeal to everyone, those familiar with drag culture or seeking an uplifting tale of self-acceptance will find it a rewarding watch. Show less

Editor Team

5/5

Darienne Lake: Altered Boy is a joyous celebration of life, love, and the art of drag. From the moment Darienne steps onto the screen, her infectious energy draws you in. The film is a heartfelt rollercoaster, full of laughter and tears, as she recounts her journey from a middle child in a strict Ca ... Show more >> Darienne Lake: Altered Boy is a joyous celebration of life, love, and the art of drag. From the moment Darienne steps onto the screen, her infectious energy draws you in. The film is a heartfelt rollercoaster, full of laughter and tears, as she recounts her journey from a middle child in a strict Catholic family to a beloved drag queen. The anecdotes are relatable, and her ability to find humour in adversity is nothing short of inspiring. Brian Volk-Weiss has crafted a film that feels both personal and universal, as it tackles the themes of identity and acceptance with grace. Each story is a testament to resilience and the power of community. The vibrant visuals and uplifting soundtrack further enhance the experience, making it a must-watch for anyone who appreciates the transformative power of self-expression. This film is not just about drag; it’s about being true to oneself and finding joy in the journey. Show less