When Lady Camden is chosen to be on RuPaul’s Drag Race’s 14th season, her life changes on many fronts. This documentary follows her underdog story from traumatic childhood to finalist on the show.
Written and directed by Luke Willis, this documentary is one full of heart that has a clear focus to let us know who Lady Camden is, where she came from, and what her life is like both during the show as well as before and after. The film has a clear focus here and really follows its subject for an in-depth view of her life as both Lady Camden and Rex as they are two sides of a coin, one and the same in many ways. The film is touching, well done, and interesting throughout. It’s an easy watch with plenty to bring the viewer in and connect with them. Here, a lot of the story is about humanity, dreams, and finding your own way in life. The film is one that should be shown and viewed by almost anyone and if it mildly appeals from a few images or the trailer, then it is likely for you. Those who won’t like it already know who they are and sadly won’t be open to checking it out anyway as they could learn a thing or twelve while watching this amazing human evolve in their own world and the world at large.
The cast here, or the folks who participate in the documentary are touching, vulnerable, and direct. There is a clear want to tell the truth and their own stories with Lady Camden at the center. The screen presence of the Lady Camden is fantastic, and the presence of Rex is also lovely. The duality of both personalities, the way they complement each other, and how fiercely honest they are as either Camden or Rex is fantastic to watch. This movie is about a person with many elements to her and these are clearly explored, giving the lead everything and showing them in every way possible. The film is about them, and they are great on the screen. The rest of the folks involved are lovely and willing to speak to the camera, adding to the story and to the reality shown. Nina West as the narrator is also great and it would be remiss to not mention her.
The cinematography by Matt Burke and Luke Willis is just right, showing exactly what the viewer needs to see, showing exactly what Lady Camden wants the viewers to see. There is a closeness in how this film is done and a bit part of it comes from how it is filmed. The work here adds to the film while also allowing the camera to almost be like a fly on the wall, giving the viewer just the right images while not invading too much. A particular scene, the ballet in drag, it especially beautiful and will be easy to spot when it comes on screen. That scene alone will leave an indelible mark on viewer by its beauty and how on point it is for the film and who Lady Camden is.
Lady Camden is a poignant and touching documentary about a larger-than-life performer who is beloved by many, and it is easy to see why. The one-on-one time with the Lady is fantastic and the view on the development of the character and performances is priceless. Lady Camden is one of those must-see and not only for her fans or those who have seen her on RuPaul’s Drag Race.