The Drag Race Universe Expands: 'Stop! That! Train!' Review
The world of RuPaul's Drag Race has expanded beyond the runway and into the realm of disaster-movie spoofs. 'Stop! That! Train!' is a delightful romp that brings together RuPaul Charles, a pair of stewardesses, and a once-in-a-century weather event, all in a bid to stop a train from meeting its untimely end.
What makes this film particularly intriguing is its self-proclaimed status as a 'true story.' It's a bold claim, considering the outlandish premise, but one that adds a layer of meta-humor to the entire production. The movie's distribution on World of Wonder, the streaming service home of 'RuPaul's Drag Race,' further blurs the lines between reality and parody.
A Cheeky Adventure
Directed by Adam Shankman, the film is a love letter to fans of the Drag Race universe. It's a cheeky, fast-paced adventure that demands viewers embrace the absurdity. The casting of RuPaul as the President of the United States, Judy Gagwell, is a stroke of genius, as RuPaul's charismatic presence and comedic timing shine throughout.
The story follows Tess and DeeDee, played by Ginger Minj and Jujubee, two stewardesses for the fictional Stank Rail. Their dream of seeing America is reignited when they join the crew of the Glamazonian Express, where they encounter a colorful cast of characters. The script is filled with witty one-liners and clever references, ensuring the audience is kept on their toes.
A Disaster-Comedy Mashup
At its core, 'Stop! That! Train!' is a disaster-comedy mashup, blending elements of coming-of-age stories and disaster movie tropes. The film embraces its lack of originality, instead focusing on delivering a whirlwind of self-aware humor. The performances are a highlight, with RuPaul's Gagwell delivering a memorable campaign slogan, 'She fun!'.
The movie also excels at incorporating LGBTQ+ themes and language, making it a refreshing addition to the genre. It plays with familiar thriller dialogue, adding a layer of humor that borders on the absurd. While it may not be a groundbreaking cinematic masterpiece, it's an entertaining ride that caters to both Drag Race fans and a broader audience.
Striking a Balance
One of the film's strengths lies in its ability to strike a balance between catering to its niche audience and appealing to a wider demographic. It offers a burlesque-style spoof that is both accessible and engaging. The ensemble cast delivers a whirlwind of jokes and references, ensuring there's something for everyone. From celebrity cameos to clever wordplay, the film leaves no stone unturned in its quest to entertain.
In my opinion, 'Stop! That! Train!' is a refreshing take on the disaster movie genre, infusing it with the glitz and glamour of the Drag Race world. It's a testament to the versatility of the franchise and its ability to expand beyond its original format. The film's success lies in its self-awareness and the talented cast's commitment to delivering a hilarious and heartwarming adventure.
