Boylesque

In a world where Poland was once a bastion of communist ideals, Lula's unapologetic attitude towards his identity is nothing short of remarkable. At 82 years old, Lula is an outlier in a fiercely homophobic culture. Despite the suffocating correctness of the 80s, he found refuge in the world of drag, a bold move that allowed him to shatter the constraints of societal expectations and live life on his own terms. As we delve into Lula's vibrant world, it's undeniable that his enthusiasm is infectious. A whirlwind of color and energy, his life is an unapologetic celebration of self-expression and rebellion. His after-hours salons, where he'd gather with friends and kindred spirits inside private apartments, served as sanctuaries where they could let their hair down, literally and figuratively. These underground gatherings allowed Lula to push back against the oppressive regime that sought to stifle individuality. But beneath the glitter and sequins lies a deeper narrative – one marked by a poignant sense of loneliness. Lula's friend, a fellow drag enthusiast and confidant, struggled with the weight of depression, ultimately succumbing to its crushing grip. The loss is palpable, and Lula's buoyant demeanor serves as a testament to his resilience. Now, Poland's oldest drag queen finds himself caught in the headlights of a youth-obsessed world where age and beauty are often pitted against one another. Yet, Lula remains defiant, refusing to conform to societal norms. He's not waiting for approval; instead, he's forging his own path, one that's equal parts vibrant and unapologetic. Bogna Kowalczyk's energetic portrait is a kinetic celebration of Lula's spirit, a symphony that perfectly captures the dynamism of his life. From meeting fans at Pride to selecting an artist to sculpt his very own specialty crematorium urn, our camera follows Lula on a journey that defies conventional norms. We're treated to a kaleidoscope of colors and scenes – an effervescent cocktail of joy, love, and loss that leaves an indelible mark on our collective imagination. Through Lula, we're shown that life is to be lived out loud. It's a mantra that serves as both a battle cry and a call to arms, a reminder that we should never allow the constraints of societal expectations to quiet our inner voice. In a society that often rewards conformity over individuality, Lula's unwavering commitment to being himself is nothing short of revolutionary. As we witness Lula in his element – whether he's commanding the dance floor or exchanging stories with fans – we're reminded that self-expression is the ultimate form of resistance. And in this, Lula serves as a shining beacon of hope, proof that it's never too late to forge a new path, to challenge the status quo, and to live life on one's own terms. But what lies beneath Lula's relentless enthusiasm and defiance? Is he simply escaping the crushing loneliness that threatens to engulf him, or is he seeking love once more – an attempt to insulate himself against the uncertainty that awaits us all? These are questions that the film leaves tantalizingly unanswered, instead choosing to let Lula's kinetic energy propel us forward on his whirlwind journey. In the end, Boyesque is more than just a film – it's an unapologetic celebration of the human spirit. Through Lula's extraordinary life, we're reminded that we all have the power to choose our own path, to break free from the constraints that seek to hold us back, and to live life on our own terms.