Art, Advocacy, and Authenticity

Read Time:3 Minute, 13 Second

MOVIE REVIEW
The Unabridged Mrs. Vera's Daybook
–

Genre: Documentary
Year Released: 2023
Runtime: 1h 20m
Director(s): Robert James
Where To Watch: available now globally on all TVOD/Digital platforms through Gravitas Ventures

RAVING REVIEW: Immersing viewers into the lively veins of San Francisco, THE UNABRIDGED MRS. VERA'S DAYBOOK unveils a vibrant canvas splashed with colors of passion, activism, and resilience. The tale winds around the harmonious blend of visionary artists David Faulk and Michael Johnstone. Their union, amidst the heart-wrenching backdrop of the AIDS crisis, transforms from a mere partnership into an electrifying charge of hope and creativity in a city subdued by heartache.

The somber notes of the Castro district played a melancholic symphony where love often whispered tales of loss. Yet, amid this gray landscape, David and Michael channeled their sorrow, painting strokes of joy and optimism. Enter Mrs. Vera, David's captivating drag persona. More than a flamboyant character, she stood as a fearless symbol of resistance against the daunting shadows of the era.

Taking the director's chair, Robert James crafts a cinematic journey that dances gracefully across time. With deft juxtapositions of historical moments, like San Francisco's iconic ACT UP and Pride marches, alongside fresh frames, viewers are granted an exclusive peek into the heart of the Verasphere. This revelation showcases a mesmerizing galaxy of participants, each shimmering in the electrifying Vera designs birthed by David and Michael.

Peeling back the layers of how this documentary came to be is an intriguing subplot. Birthed from a simple idea to spotlight the electric Mrs. Vera, Robert James initially perceived it as a fleeting cinematic venture. Yet, a short film could barely touch the surface of David and Michael's monumental legacy. Their rich tapestry of a quarter-century-long journey, underpinned by community-centric art and fervent activism, warranted a more expansive canvas.

As David's transformation into Mrs. Vera unfolds on screen, with meticulously crafted outfits and makeup reminiscing his New York art sojourns, the scene turns to awe-inspiring cinema. Coupled with Johnstone's evocative captures, the Verasphere emerges as an emblem of undying optimism, not mere pageantry.

Yet, as with any creative endeavor, there are avenues for enhancement. While the film beautifully weaves individual tales with the broader spectrum of the LGBTQIA+ journey, a dash more cinematic innovation could heighten its allure.

THE UNABRIDGED MRS. VERA'S DAYBOOK rises beyond mere visuals and vibrant parades. It serenades as a story of grit, offering warmth during tumultuous times, and stands tall as a testament to the unyielding strength of the human spirit. It's not just a film; it's a celebration – of David, Michael, and the vibrant LGBTQIA+ community, echoing their tribulations, triumphs, and undying zest for existence.

For more reviews, please visit – https://linktr.ee/Overlyhonestmoviereviews for more info.

Follow me on Letterboxd, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube. Find my social media accounts on most platforms simply by searching Overly Honest Movie Reviews.

I’m always happy to hear from my readers; please say hi or send me any questions about movies.

[photo courtesy of GRAVITAS VENTURES]

MY SAG-AFTRA/WGA STRIKE STATEMENT:
As an advocate for creators, actors, and writers, I firmly stand with SAG-AFTRA and the WGA in their current strike. The entertainment industry is built on these individuals' extraordinary talents, and their contributions must be appropriately recognized and rewarded. They deserve fair compensation, sensible work hours, and respect for their creative rights. I believe in the power of unity and collective action, and I'm steadfast in my support for their fight for better working conditions and fair remuneration. Together, we can shape a more equitable future in the entertainment world.

#SAGAFTRA #WGA #SAGAFTRAStrong #WGAStrong