Reviewed by: Fringefeed
Review by Katelyn Clark | 07 February 2023

Sexy, sleek and iconic; this feature-length film gets a big yeehaw from me.

Premiering live in Western Australia for the very first time at Rooftop Movies, this short film takes audiences on a wild ride through the Midwest. A unique blend of cabaret, theatre and film, the award-winning YUMMY team have taken the spaghetti western genre and reinvented it into a glamourous, queer exploration of westward expansion. Incorporating dance, circus, drag and burlesque, every minute was a delight to the eyes and the soul.

Hosted by YUMMY Director Valerie Hex, audiences heard the interesting backstory, filming process and creative themes that inspired the exclusive film. Despite the short run time, every second was packed with amazing performances, stunning costumes and cultural reflection. The sharp-shooting drag superstar, Foxxy Empire, is our film's wise narrator, bedazzled in an Aboriginal Flag dress and some funky Dame Edna-style glasses, here to help audiences draw parallels between the US and Australia's own history.

The film struck the perfect balance between expert showmanship, humour and commentary. Impeccable editing and cinematography carefully manoeuvre audiences through the story and work to highlight the talents of each artist. The play on typical genre tropes makes it an interesting watch, as you'll never be able to watch a western again without thinking its camp.

Plus, there's no better place to watch this western wonder than at the Rooftop Movies, stretched out on a beanbag with a glass of wine in one hand and a burger in the other. If you're organised, you even can get down early to watch the sunset.

This sophisticated production is serving western sex appeal through a queer, inclusive lens and is a must-see if you like your movies hot, spicy and with a dash of glitter.