Indie Gems: Hedwig and the Angry Inch

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That kid's got a future!

You've got to hand it to John Cameron Mitchell, director and star of this film. He really knows how to put on a show. In a way, it's amazing to think that the same man that directed this did Rabbit Hole, two films that couldn't be more different. Yet, Hedwig is just as layered as Nicole Kidman's Becca. This is where Mitchell's work shines.

Hedwig is a transsexual from East Berlin who fell in love with the United States at a young age. When things don't turn out the way he planned, he's now leading a US tour singing in small restaurants while telling his life story in a series of cartoons and flashbacks. We also learn of an old lover, Tommy (Michael Pitt) who stole all of Hedwig's songs and became a famous rocker.

I rented this film because of Michael Pitt, who actually has a pretty small role, but manages to own it as always. Mitchell impressed me the most, Hedwig was tragic, funny, and obnoxious at times, but she remains one of the most interesting characters I've seen on film in awhile. I've got to hand it to the hair, make up, and costume designers as well. This was a beautiful film in that aspect, I'd love to see the Broadway show this was based upon some day.

Recommended: Yes

Grade: B+

Memorable Quote" "Our apartment was so small I had to play in the stove." - Hedwig (John Cameron Mitchell)


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