A drag queen in combat boots vs. a tenants' lawyer in a tie — democracy has never been this fierce.
Welcome to a different kind of drag race! As NYC emerges from the chaos of 2020, Marti Cummings (they/them), an audacious and big-hearted drag queen, goes all out in a historic bid to become a City Councilperson. It’s one of the most hotly contested Council races in years, and Marti’s strongest competitor is Shaun Abreu, a tenants’ lawyer with deep roots in the district’s Latinx community. As these first-timers race to do the most good for their Upper Manhattan neighbors, they offer very different visions for Democratic politics – one in a suit and tie, the other in combat boots and floral print. As this immersive documentary reveals, Marti’s passion inspires queer activists and allies to change the political system. Their campaign becomes a community of its own, especially for Marti’s non-binary peers who have never before seen themselves represented.
Acting
Marti commands every room without dimming anyone else.
Direction
Fidel captures campaign intimacy without losing political scope.
Editing
Seamless weaving of drag performance and door-knocking grit.
Director
Emma Fidel
Trivia, insights & behind the scenes
US
