To Wong Foo Thanks for Everything, Julie Newmar

After tying for first place in New York City’s prestigious Drag Queen of the Year contest, Noxeema Jackson and Vida Boheme are awarded an exciting trip to Hollywood to participate in the grander Miss Drag Queen of America Pageant. Before they embark on their journey, Vida convinces Noxeema to bring along the naive yet eager Chi-Chi Rodriguez as their protégé, initially dismissing him merely as a “boy in a dress.” To facilitate this, they decide to sell their plane tickets to a friend named John Jacob Jingleheimer Schmidt—a whimsical “Camp” moniker—allowing them to purchase a striking yellow 1967 Cadillac DeVille. With a cherished autographed photo of Julie Newmar (inscribed “To Wong Foo, Thanks for Everything! Julie Newmar”) in tow, the trio sets off for Los Angeles.

Their road trip takes a dark turn when they are pulled over by the aggressive and bigoted Sheriff Dollard. In a violent confrontation, he attempts to assault Vida, but she bravely retaliates and knocks him unconscious, leaving him presumed dead as they hastily drive away. At a rest stop, they take a moment to recover from the encounter, but fate has other plans as their car inevitably breaks down. Fortunately, they are taken in by the charming Bobby Ray, a local from the small town of Snydersville, who offers them a ride to a cozy bed and breakfast owned by Carol Ann and her less-than-gentle husband Virgil.

Stuck in Snydersville for the weekend while they await their car repair, the drag queens quickly become involved in the community. Sadly, Chi-Chi faces harassment from some local rednecks, but Bobby Ray comes to the rescue. As they volunteer for the town’s Strawberry Social, they recognize an opportunity to uplift the local women by giving them makeovers, indulging in hairdressing sessions, and selecting fabulous vintage 1960s outfits from the local clothing store.

However, their newfound happiness is cut short when the same rednecks return to bully them again. Fed up with the unprovoked attacks, Noxeema takes action and confronts their leader in a fierce showdown, showcasing her notorious New York attitude. Throughout their time in Snydersville, Vida, Noxeema, and Chi-Chi strive to bring positivity and a sense of hope to the residents, even helping to organize the Strawberry Social. Meanwhile, Sheriff Dollard, stinging from his earlier defeat, aims to track down the queens, which adds to his growing embarrassment.

As time passes, Vida becomes painfully aware of the domestic abuse Carol Ann suffers at the hands of her husband, Virgil. One night, she bravely steps in to confront Virgil, decisively defending Carol Ann and forcing the abusive man out of their lives. With Carol Ann managing to repair their vehicle, the queens decide to stay for the Strawberry Social. In a heartwarming moment, Carol Ann reveals she knew about Vida’s true identity all along due to her noticeable Adam’s apple.

In a twist of fate, Virgil and Sheriff Dollard bond at a local bar, realizing that the drag queens they’re after are the very same guests in Snydersville. Determined to reclaim their authority, Dollard demands that the townspeople hand over the queens. However, the spirited residents unite to protect their newfound friends. Channeling the iconic scene from Spartacus, each member steps forward claiming to be a drag queen, leading to Dollard’s public humiliation and retreat.

As the Strawberry Social unfolds, colored in cheerful red outfits, Noxeema, Vida, and Chi-Chi prepare to take their leave, their bond with the townsfolk forever cherished. In a beautiful gesture of friendship, Vida presents Carol Ann with the beloved autographed photo of Julie Newmar, a symbol of their journey together.

Finally, they reach Los Angeles, and after absorbing invaluable insights from Vida and Noxeema during their escapades, Chi-Chi triumphs by winning the title of Drag Queen of the Year, an honor presented to her by none other than Julie Newmar herself.

Last Updated: November 16, 2024 at 11:35