Die Mommie Die: Drugs Glamour and Camp

Title: Die Mommie Die


Year:2003


Director: Mark Rucker 










Now I know this isn't a typical film I review, but its "Weird" cinema which means cult films fits in with that. Die Mommie Die does have murder afoot and is a hell of a lot of fun. I feel like my readers would dig this weird and wild film that is not only cleverly written but fall on the floor funny. Originally a stage play in 1997 also written by and staring Charles Busch. 

So I`m going to get right to the point. If you`ve never seen a Joan Crawford film or any melodramas of the 1940s - early 60`s you might not get many of the jokes. The whole film is a obvious send up of films like Mommie Dearest and Whatever Happened to Baby Jane? Busch really nails down the over the top feel and dialogue with enough camp to make John Waters blush.


In less capable hands this film could have been just a one note joke- two important things that really pulls this movie together. One is a well written script which is not only true to the films that inspired it but has a cast of characters that are odd and entertaining. Many twists and turns abound, and will keep you guessing to the surprise ending, you wont see it coming. 


The second thing that makes this work so well is a screamingly funny performance by Charles Busch.  Not only can he deliver his lines pitch perfect with tongue firmly pressed to cheek but proves that he can do physical comedy as well. The jokes are raunchy and way over the line of good taste which is just how I like it. 

The rest of the cast is full of notable character actors. Former heart throb Jason Preistley  
proves he`s still got it as switch hitter Tony Parker. Preistly embodies the macho male from a 1950s like Cary Grant and knocks it out of the park.  Jason and Charles have a great on screen chemistry. 


Screen icons Philip Baker Hall and Frances Conroy are wonderful and add a touch of class and polish to this production. Not to be out done the children are played by Stark Sands and American Pie star Natasha Lyonne. Everyone in D.M.D is at the top of their game and does a excellent job of engaging the audience. 

Wonderful cast Natasha Lyonne Stark Sands and Jason Preistly

This film is obviously aimed towards the gay culture but has enough humor and plot that its fun for everyone. I like to think my readers are not narrow minded, but sadly if you are you might not like the slight gay sub plot in the film. I assure you its not tasteful at all which is just fine with me! Classic film fans will find a lot to love with this fabulously over the top and wildly funny film that will leave you with a big smile on your face and a stag in your shoes... This film is no drag!