The Lady in Question Is Charles Busch (2005)

Directors:

John Catania
Charles D. Ignacio

Writers:

John Catania (writer)
Charles D. Ignacio (writer)

Genre:

Documentary | Biography

Plot:

Plot Keywords:

Gay Interest | Homosexual History | Character Name In Title

Awards:

1 win

Cast

Theresa Aceves	...	Ingenue
Carl Andress	...	Director / Best Friend
Charles Busch	...	Leading Lady
Elizabeth Busch-LeNe	...	Sister #2
Margaret Busch	...	Sister #1
Kenneth Elliott	...	Director
Boy George	...	Himself
Andy Halliday	...	Childhood Friend
Julie Halston	...	Sidekick
Arnie Kolodner	...	Male Lead
Jeff Melnick	...	Manager
Michael Musto	...	Himself
Eric Myers	...	Leading Man
Rosie O'Donnell	...	Herself
Mark Rucker	...	Film Director
Paul Rudnick	...	Himself
Bina Sharif	...	East Village Friend
Edward Taussig	...	College Roommate (as Ed Taussig)
Kathleen Turner	...	Herself
Billy Wheelan	...	Silent Film Actor
B.D. Wong	...	Himself

Runtime:

USA:90 min

Country:

USA

Language:

English

Color:

Color

Company:

Two Lions Productions LLC

Movie Connections:

Features Psycho Beach Party (2000)

This movie is a hit!

Last night, I had the good fortune of seeing this movie for the first time (but hopefully not the last!). This was my first introduction to Charles Busch, and what an introduction it is! The directors have done a great job of giving us a beautifully well rounded picture of who Charles Busch is, professionally and personally.

The movie itself is filled with sincere comedy, and raw emotion. You are introduced to Mr. Busch's biological and theatrical family, and together, they swirl a biographical tale of the tremendous talent that is a Grand Dame of the Stage, and a wonderful author.

Emotionally touching is the tribute Mr. Busch gives to his aunt, and his two sisters, whom have all influenced his work heavily. The profound friendships he makes during his almost accidental rise to stardom along side his comedy troupe leave you laughing and crying. You witness the comedy troupe as being more than just co-stars. They were a well oiled family. With titles such as "Vampire Lesbians of Sodom," they had to have a keen sense of humor to execute the finely honed wit, high drama that takes you back to the early Hollywood starlets, and pop culture references that Mr. Busch crafted into hit after hit.

I wish that I had been able to see some of his earliest performances live, but with this film, it's the next best thing. Footage from his plays, pictures, and stories telling about backstage conditions are such a rare treat to hear.

The directors are to be commended for finding a way to tell the biography of Charles Busch that is informative, enjoyable, and truly inspirational. Charles Busch has never let anything stand in his way. He stayed true to his one passion, acting. When one play, book, or movie ends, he reinvents himself and starts something new. I recommend this movie to anyone in need of inspiration to stay true to oneself while pursuing their own Great American Dream.

And you can bet, I will not miss out on Charles Busch's next endeavors!