If you’re looking for a colorful movie with a bit of drama and a feel good ending then I think what you’re looking for is Kinky Boots. It’s a cute little story adapted from real life events that takes you deep into the Soho transvestite’s soles; shoe soles that is.
Director Julian Jarrold made a bold decision when he cast Chiwetel Ejiofor as Lola. Choosing someone who had no knowledge of transvestism and no experience in drag was a big gamble, but one that paid off. Lola captures the stage in some of the best drag queen performances I’ve ever seen. She also captures the attention of Charlie, played by Joel Edgerton, who sees her as the answer to his father’s failing shoe factory. Together with his assistant Lauren, played by Sarah-Jane Potts, he convinces Lola to help him save the business. In the process, they turn their little British town upside down.
Although I thought there were a few weak points in the plot, for example a side story or two that seemed underdeveloped and in the way, overall I liked the movie. The characters were lovable and the acting was good. For me though, it was more about the drag than anything else and on that note it couldn’t have been much better. The costumes were big, bright, and bold and of course the shoes were impeccable. The music was sultry and sexy and was perfectly matched to the brassy tones of Lola. Even the backup dancers, who I usually find get in the way, carried their own and added to the splendor.
Overall, I think Kinky Boots deserves a solid three stars and is a good choice for a carefree weekend movie. Throw it on during a night with your friends when it’s all about that popcorn laden playtime.
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