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It’s Dorothy!

Directed by Jeffrey McHale2025USA100 mins

The Wizard of Oz has remained one of the most enduring stories for over one hundred years, spawning dozens interpretations in just as long. Its protagonist, young Dorothy Gale from Kansas, has become one of the most recognizable and influential characters in pop culture history. But what is it about this young girl thrust into an unknown world that has resonated with audiences for decades?

It's Dorothy! explores the origins, various versions, and legacy of the character of Dorothy, from Judy Garland’s landmark portrayal in the 1939 classic and its impact on queer culture, to the many ways she has been subverted and reimagined in subsequent movies, stage shows, and television series.

Featuring interviews with former Dorothys (like Fairuza Balk and Ashanti) and pop culture icons (including John Waters, Lena Waithe, Amber Ruffin, Rufus Wainwright, and Margaret Cho), director Jeffrey McHale follows the Showgirls doc/essay You Don’t Nomi (Frameline43) with another super gay cinematic deep dive, exploring the ways in which Dorothy has continued to be a stand-in for the outcasts of the world.

Expected Guests

Jeffrey McHale
Director
Ariana Garfinkel
Producer
Zel McCarthy
Producer
Suzanne Zionts
Producer
Joshua Grannell
Moderator/Participant

Tickets

Quick links
Sponsor
Director
Jeffrey McHale
Year
2025
Country
USA
Running Time
100 mins
Language
English
Cast/Participants
Ashanti, Fairuza Balk, John Waters, Margaret Cho, Lena Waithe, Amber Ruffin, Roxane Gay, Rufus Wainwright, Nichelle Lewis, Danielle Hope, Shanice Shantay
Section
Documentary Features
Program Note Writer
Jorge Molina