A new comedy film, Stop! That! Train!, is set to bring a distinctive brand of drag-infused humour to wider audiences. Featuring prominent drag queens Jujubee and Ginger Minj, known from RuPaul's Drag Race, the movie is described as a high-energy parody in the vein of classic disaster-comedies such as Airplane! and The Naked Gun. Director Adam Shankman has stated his intention to create a film that transcends the existing fan base of drag culture, aiming for universal appeal.
The film transports viewers to a parallel America where railways dominate transport and unusual weather events, termed 'stormaganzas', are a recognised phenomenon. The plot follows characters Tess (Ginger Minj) and DeeDee (Jujubee) as they transition from being laid off from 'Stank Rail' to becoming stewardesses on the luxury 'Glamazonian' train line. What ensues is a chaotic blend of natural disaster, political intrigue, musical numbers, and even paranormal activity, with Sarah Michelle Gellar also making an appearance.
Jujubee and Ginger Minj have been actively engaging in a whirlwind of promotional activities for the film, reflecting the demanding schedule often associated with major movie releases. Despite the intensity, both stars have expressed their enjoyment, with Ginger Minj noting that the press tour has 'absolutely mimicked the making of the movie'. Jujubee added, 'We have to schedule our sleep, but I’m so high on life and all of us have been able to stay in the moment.'
The screenplay, penned by Christina Friel and Connor Wright, is notable for its incredibly dense comedic content, delivering an astonishing number of gags per minute. Reviewers suggest that its full comedic depth might only be appreciated after multiple viewings. The dialogue is designed to be constantly zipping, ensuring that even if not every punchline lands, the next one is never far away. Recurring gags, such as legendary drag queen Latrice Royale taking on various jobs across America, and the call-and-response humour of 'give it to me straight/now give it to me gay', are woven throughout the narrative.
While RuPaul's Drag Race has achieved mainstream success and garnered awards, and related shows like AJ and the Queen and We're Here have been well-received, Stop! That! Train! is positioned as a significant crossover event. Shankman explicitly clarified his vision, stating, 'I was very clear with [the producers] that I was making a movie for everyone, not just Drag Race fans.' He draws a parallel to successful spin-offs from programmes like Saturday Night Live, emphasising that while the film owes its existence to Drag Race, it stands as its own distinct entity.
At present, UK streaming availability for Stop! That! Train! has not been formally announced. However, given the significant UK following for RuPaul's Drag Race, which is available on WOW Presents Plus and often features on other major platforms, it is anticipated that the film will secure a distribution deal for British audiences.
Source: Bleecker Street Media