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Swan Song

Directed by Todd Stephens2021USA105 mins

Get ready for the outlandish true story of the Liberace of Sandusky, Ohio! When retired hairdresser Pat Pitsenbarger is offered $25,000 to style an estranged friend for her funeral, he does the only sensible thing: he escapes his nursing home and hitchhikes into town with a sign boasting “free beauty tips.” As Pat makes his way through his now-alien hometown shoplifting beauty supplies, he finds himself reconnecting with friends, confronting old rivals, and facing the demons of his past.

In Swan Song, director Todd Stephens (who wrote Frameline22’s Audience Award winner Edge of Seventeen) has found the perfect showcase for German screen legend Udo Kier. As Pat, Kier is simultaneously sassy, tender, heartbreaking, and hilarious. His beautifully nuanced performance is complemented by a stunning supporting cast that includes the inimitable Jennifer Coolidge (Best in Show) as Pat’s former protégée, Linda Evans (Dynasty) in a wonderful ghostly cameo, and Michael Urie (Ugly Betty) as the deceased’s grandson. Swan Song is a heartfelt tribute to the real Pat, to the director’s own hometown, and to the ever-changing landscape of queer culture.

Quick links
Sponsor
Director
Todd Stephens
Year
2021
Country
USA
Running Time
105 mins
Language
English
Section
Streaming, Narrative Features
Program Note Writer
Elliott Breeden

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