Pop Star On Ice

Thursday, January 14 at 7:30pm

The sixth season of Frameline at the Center kicks off with a fun documentary that's sure to reignite your Olympic dreams!

 

Pop Star On Ice

Dir. David Barba, James Pellerito
USA, 2008, 85 Minute Running Time

Johnny Weir’s figure skating career has a fairy tale quality: almost literally plucked from a frozen Pennsylvania cornfield — where as a lanky 12-year-old boy he glided among the broken stalks, emulating his inspiration, Olympic gold medalist Oksana Baiul — Weir quickly rose to become a three-time US National Champion (2004-2006). Then, at the 2006 Winter Olympics, Weir triple-axeled into the pantheon of celebrity athletes. Though he finished a disappointing fifth, his flamboyant, provocative personality and lithe grace both dazzled and scandalized the image-obsessed figure skating world.

What makes Weir so beloved and controversial? It’s all on display in this intimate documentary, Pop Star on Ice. How many other Olympic athletes would let themselves be filmed in a bubble bath and blonde wig gleefully play-acting the Russian interviewer to another naked man (in this case, “best friend” Paris)? We’re guessing none. For over two years, the filmmakers shadowed Weir — interviewing him, longtime coach Priscilla Hill and adoring mother Patti — as he prances the catwalk during Fashion Week, criticizes judging, throws tantrums, competes to victory and tries to harness his immense natural talent.

Ultimately, Weir refuses to answer the question dogging all male skaters — well, is he or isn’t he? But, as the film makes clear, his uncompromising, passionate life makes the question irrelevant. Johnny Weir is simply himself — world-class athlete, diva, fashionista, superstar. — JEFF CAMPBELL

Watch the trailer:

View the official film website.

Kindly arrive early as seating is limited. Don’t miss this FREE screening of this powerful film!

2010

Click below to learn about upcoming Frameline At The Center screenings:

January 14:
Pop Star On Ice
March 11:
Screaming Queens: The Riot at Compton's Cafeteria

September 9: TBA
November 11: TBA

 

2009

Past Frameline At The Center screenings include:

January 8: Desi's Looking For a New Girl
February 12: Living With Pride: Ruth C. Ellis @ 100
March 12: Generations: Youth & Elders Making Movies Together
April 9: Fun in Girls' Shorts 2
August 13: Diagnosing Difference
October 8: Forever's Gonna Start Tonight

November 12: The Butch Factor
December 10: Training Rules

 

Frameline proudly presents admission-free screenings at the San Francisco LGBT Community Center located at 1800 Market Street at 7:30pm on the second Thursdays of select months.