“Glitter & Doom”: A Time-Warp Musical Love Story
In a world where nostalgia often reigns supreme, there are some pieces of art that feel like they were frozen in time and thawed out after 30 years. “Glitter & Doom” is one such creation, a gay musical-love-dramedy that harkens back to the early-to-mid-1990s, a time when queer independent filmmaking was at its peak.
The movie, directed by Tom Gustafson and written by Cory Krueckeberg, follows the story of Glitter (played by Alex Diaz), a circus aspirant with a passion for juggling and photography, who crosses paths with Doom (played by Alan Cammish), a melancholic folk singer. What ensues is a two-hour rollercoaster of false starts and second-guessing as their romance unfolds against the backdrop of Indigo Girls songs from various eras.
The film’s use of the Indigo Girls’ music is a nod to the emotional depth and complexity of the duo’s songwriting. Through rearrangements by Michelle Chamuel, songs like “Prince of Darkness” and “Shed Your Skin” are seamlessly woven together to highlight the ambivalence and intensity that permeates the Indigo Girls’ catalog.
While “Glitter & Doom” may not be a cinematic masterpiece, it captures the essence of the Indigo Girls’ music and the themes of courage, hope, fear, and anger that run through their songs. The movie’s chaotic visuals and quirky dialogue may not be everyone’s cup of tea, but it’s clear that the filmmakers understand and appreciate the heart and soul of the music they’re working with.
Despite its flaws, “Glitter & Doom” shines bright with warmth and innocence. The performances, especially those by Missi Pyle as Doom’s mother, are heartfelt and genuine, capturing the essence of connection and emotion that the Indigo Girls’ music evokes.
In a world where blockbuster hits and stage musicals dominate the entertainment industry, “Glitter & Doom” stands out as a unique and heartfelt ode to the power of music and love. So, if you’re looking for a trip down memory lane to the queer independent filmmaking era of the 90s, “Glitter & Doom” might just be the ticket.
“Glitter & Doom” is now playing in theaters, running time 1 hour and 55 minutes.
