The People’s Joker
Introduced by Baird Campbell, projectionist, MFAH Films
A hilarious reimagining of the classic coming-of-age story follows an unconfident, closeted trans girl as she moves to Gotham City to make it big by joining the cast of a government-sanctioned, late-night sketch show in a world where comedy has been outlawed. As mainstream success eludes her, she unites with a team of misfits on a collision course with the city’s fascist caped crusader. Vats of feminizing chemicals, sexy cartoon interludes, scarecrow psychiatrists, and psychedelic gender dysphoria all play supporting roles. Helmed by writer, director, editor, and star Vera Drew using her own life experiences as a basis for the film, The People’s Joker is a deeply personal journey that is as much documentary as it is parody.
Tickets Available Soon
- $9 general admission; $7 MFAH members, students with ID, seniors (65+)
Plan Your Visit
- This screening takes place in Brown Auditorium Theater in the Law Building.
- Parking Information | Museum Hours | MFAH Campus Map
Community partner: Big Queer Picture Show
Underwriting for the Film Department is provided by Tenaris and American Friends of Fundacion Proa Inc., The June Leaf and Robert Frank Foundation, and the Vaughn Foundation.
Generous funding is provided by The Consulate General of the Republic of Korea; Foundation for Independent Media Arts; Nina and Michael Zilkha; Lois Chiles; Franci Neely; Carrin Patman and Jim Derrick; Ms. Laurence Unger; and ILEX Foundation.
The People’s Joker
Directed by Vera Drew
(USA, 2022, 92 minutes, in English)
Brown Auditorium Theater, 35mm