Alaska Is a Drag

Going through Netflix looking for something different I came across Alaska... I was surprised to see it had a thumbs up. Don't remember it. However I let it run. It didn't take long to realize I have never watched this. It was/is too remarkable not to remember. Low key and lay back kind of film with the usual homophobic gay basher who is secretly in love with the out and proud young man. I found noting outstanding in and with the movie; just an easy to watch enjoyable story. It's simplicity, if anything makes it a good movie. I always enjoy watching Matt Dallas and he was typically lay-back in this role.

Six years after it was filmed, I found this and I am glad I did. Given that there are only eight reviews for this film I gather that not many others have found it either, though it's a specialty piece that won't appeal to everyone. First thing I have to say is kind of a criticism, but in this small remote Alaskan town is it really feasible that there are this many gay people?! I highly doubt it, but that doesn't negate the fact that it's an enjoyable little film about acceptance, caring, support, standing up for one's rights and doing what you gotta do what's best for you in life. Or at least try. The four principal characters in this film are a twin brother and sister and it's that brother who has major aspirations to be a drag queen along with two guys, one who seems to have to live in denial of being gay and the other just learning that he might be. Martin L. Washington Jr. & Maya Washington portray the twins and the other two are played by Matt Dallas and Chris O'Shea and all are good and Dallas is really hot! There are a bunch of small character actors in small character roles, too many to mention, and all are enjoyable. This film is funny, interesting and while not exactly a great film, I could find little wrong with this simple little story.

Simple storyline. Love these kids. It may not be 100% believeable story but I dont care about that. It wasn't so depressing these characters make the best of their situations and make you like them and this taste for this simple middle of no where life they lead. If I were to believe thered be someone trying to "get outta this town" its them. Thanks for the feel good when it may not be meant that way.

This had a genuine possibility of being good or even interesting, but it failed. The acting was decent, the writing was okay, there was some visual flair to a few scenes, but it really was a boring overall movie. There was no proper build up to anything. It was a flatline. They go to work, get in a fight, drink. Got to work, get in a fight, and then drink; sharing shallow and very little character background in boring quick conversation. One or two boxing sessions thrown in that don't build up properly. A drag transformation that gets little attention. It's all repetitive and bland. There is a good idea to be explored here, but they do nothing with it and nothing happens. Which makes the payoff feel underwhelming and pointless. It's disjointed, inconsistent and just kind of a bore. The characters are shallow and under written. It's just not that good, sadly. I would not recommend this movie.

I discovered this film randomly from another website about female directors and decided to give it a try. I'm sure glad I did as this film was a gem. First off, the fact that you get to see the aurora lights in the background of many scenes is in itself a reason to watch the film. I went to Alaska years ago and fell in love with this state, but I can see how it can be dreary at times for those living there despite the natural beauty and wilderness and this film does a great job in capturing that too as the backstory of this kid that aims to be a superstar drag queen. Also, very great and impressive cast, highly recommend this film.