Queendom

Agniia Galdanova’s Queendom is a nuanced and ingenious exploration of life as a trans-drag artist in modern Russia. It follows Jena Marvin, a performance activist who is known for provocative and exotic characters using different mediums for her costumes – from paint and tape to barbed wire. Inspired by the legend of Slenderman and his spidery long limbs, Jena braves the streets of her country in high platforms to protest the injustices against the LGBTQ+ community and the war in Ukraine. She’s met with scrutiny from those in positions of power, mocking amusement from passersby, and sometimes even physical violence from her peers. Still, she stands firm, using drag as a form of self and political expression. As stated in the documentary: “All artists strive for attention…and all important issues deserve attention.”

Among the topics explored in Queendom, one that stands out is Jena’s family dynamic. The film showcases how even the most supportive members of the family for any LGBTQ+ individual can also cause harm and play into stereotypes. Jena’s grandmother calls her “my little oddball” affectionately, but these three simple words heavily impact how Jena perceives herself. Jena insists she’s not “an anomaly”. There’s also the strained and complex relationship with her grandfather. While it’s difficult and there’s very little understanding between the two, it’s obvious that they both care for each other. The expression that is used to refer to her grandfather’s efforts is “meeting halfway” – but his hurling of slurs at Jena and the way he condemns her gender identity asserts that there is no such thing as halfway when it comes to bigotry. Still, even after all that is said and done, he seeks Jena and worries for her safety.

In terms of production, the diverse locations play a big role in the film’s visual delivery. The lighting varies depending on the weather and harmonises well with Jena’s art. Aside from that, the picture is silent and fairly stripped back. It doesn’t indulge in fancy editing, background music or extravagant production. Instead, the visual impact comes from Jena’s artistry: her costumes, photoshoots and videos. Interspersed among scenes with her family, her activism and moments of bigotry are her performances, showcasing different costumes and characters, accompanied by select audio. One specific and powerful example is when she dances to the audio of the school’s decision to expel her after joining in on an “illegal” protest. These scenes are all so compelling and captivating; they underline the relevant issues Jena faces throughout the feature.

Jena’s story is alluring, her strength and bravery is inspiring. But above all else, it’s her family dynamic, it’s the fear that she feels and her horrid experiences that amplify her humanity. More than just an artist and an activist, Jena is someone who wants to be herself in a world that refuses to accept the truth of who she is.

Mae Trumata

Queendom is released in select cinemas on 1^st December 2023.

Watch the trailer for Queendom here: