After fifty gloriously sequined years in the business, David’s 85th birthday is approaching and a special performance has been arranged in Brighton.
As Cooper’s documentary builds gently towards this performance, the historic context of David’s changing experience of cabaret culture and LGBTQ communities is narratively shaped by a revealingly awkward meeting with America’s oldest drag queen (Darcelle XV).
This warm-hearted and humorous insight into community, old age, friendship and the difficulties and joys of LGBTQ history is handled with an unobtrusive, observational style; consequently, it is the life and charisma of ‘Maisie Trollette’ that deservedly, and entertainingly, takes the spotlight.