Tower Theatre :: 4:30pm :: Sunday, September 21

Pageant

  • $10.00
  • Director: Ron Davis/Stewart Halpern
  • 2008, USA, 95min

Female impersonators take to the stage as they compete for the prestigious Miss Gay America title.  This fascinating and entrancing documentary follows five of the hopefuls, including a flight attendant (go figure!), a landscape architect and a devoted father as they give 110% to their quest to be the best.

Fifty contestants take to the stage in their finest, displaying their talents to the judges and their true feelings to us.  The amazing physical transformation of these men into glamorous women is a wonder to behold. No hormones or body enhancements are allowed, which means these au naturel drag queens become beautiful the old-fashioned way: with duct tape and lots of makeup.

But it’s the film’s focus on the people under the mascara that makes Pageant truly resonate. Interviews with the contestants and their supportive friends and family provide moving insights and intriguing details about what motivates them. Soon the real life drama of the competition takes over as we watch extravagant performances and frantic costume changes, wondering who will walk away with the coveted crown. More than an immensely engaging story about men in women’s clothing, Pageant is an inspirational story about the power of chasing your dreams and the beauty of being yourself.

Audience Award Winner – Best Documentary Film, Frameline32

Closing Night Gala & Awards - Samba Tower

Closing Night Gala and Awards - Samba Tower

For Sponsors, Director's Club (and above) members, VIP members and Closing Night ticket holders!

Following the screening of XXY, we’ll bring down the house on Reel Pride 2008 at Samba Tower. Partygoers will enjoy wine and cocktails and catering by Tower Restaurants while dancing the night away with filmmakers, anxious to learn who will claim the Director's Club and Audience Awards for best films of the 2008 festival. Boogie down, and lift a glass as we announce the award winners and bring our fabulous 19th festival to a close.

(21 and over -- ID required for entry. Please show your Reel Pride pass or ticket for admittance)

Purchase your passes or tickets online or at our box office (807 E. Olive) in advance or get them on the day of the show right in front of the Tower Theatre!

Samba Tower is located adjacent to the Tower Theatre at the corner of Wishon and Olive, Fresno CA.

Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
Sunday
  • Tower Theatre
  • Starline Lounge
  • Reel Pride Pavillion
  • Off-site Party
  • Sponsors, VIP & Directors Club Members only
  • Sponsors & Directors Club Members only