Queer Riot (2022)
A joyful, heartfelt comedy special celebrating LGBTQIA+ voices returning to the stage after lockdown, headlined by the legendary Margaret Cho.
Queer Riot - Movie Information
- Original Title: Queer Riot
- Release Year: 2022
- Directed by: Page Hurwitz
- Type: Movie
- Runtime: 56m
- Original Language: English
- Spoken Languages: English
- Release Date (Theatrical): July 17, 2022
Queer Riot - Plot
The Hoot, an underground theater located in the basement of a former nun's residence, is the locale for this brand new one-hour comedy special created by Page Hurwitz and Tatiana von Fürstenberg. In a highly emotional moment, a close-knit group of eight LGBTQIA+ comedians take to the stage for the very first time after lock down. Led by headliner Margaret Cho, we see each of these gifted performers expertly work the crowd and get huge laughs with distinctly queer material, while behind-the-scenes they have open-hearted conversations with each other about the unique space they've created in an industry that can be inhospitable to queerness. It's a tender portrait of community that strikes a balance between lifting one another up, while gently competing for the light.
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Queer Riot - Cast & Crew
Director(s)
- Page Hurwitz
Main Cast
- River Butcher
- Margaret Cho
- Brad Loekle
- Justin Martindale
- Christine Medrano
- Jackie Monahan
- Daniel Webb
- Akeem Woods
Producers
- Natalia Provatas
Queer Riot - FAQs
What is Queer Riot about?
Queer Riot follows eight LGBTQIA+ comedians, headlined by Margaret Cho, as they perform live for the first time after lockdown at The Hoot, an intimate underground theater. Between sets, the comedians share candid conversations about community, identity, and carving out space in an industry that doesn't always welcome queerness.
Is Queer Riot worth watching for comedy fans?
Absolutely. Queer Riot is more than a stand-up special — it's a tender portrait of community and resilience. The comedians bring sharp, distinctly queer material and genuine warmth, while the behind-the-scenes conversations add emotional depth that sets it apart from a standard comedy showcase.
Who are the comedians featured in Queer Riot?
The special features eight LGBTQIA+ performers: Margaret Cho, River Butcher, Brad Loekle, Justin Martindale, Christine Medrano, Jackie Monahan, Daniel Webb, and Akeem Woods. Margaret Cho serves as the headliner, with each comedian bringing their own distinct voice and perspective to the stage.
Where was Queer Riot filmed?
Queer Riot was filmed at The Hoot, a charming underground theater tucked in the basement of a former nun's residence. The intimate venue gives the special a unique, close-knit atmosphere that perfectly complements the sense of community at the heart of the film.
Who directed Queer Riot?
Queer Riot was directed by Page Hurwitz, who also co-created the special alongside Tatiana von Fürstenberg. Hurwitz brings a thoughtful, observational eye to the project, balancing the energy of the live performances with the intimacy of the backstage conversations.
Is Queer Riot based on a true story or real events?
Yes — Queer Riot documents a real live comedy event. The performances and backstage conversations are genuine, capturing an authentic moment of reunion and celebration as LGBTQIA+ comedians returned to the stage together following the COVID-19 lockdown period.
What makes Queer Riot different from other comedy specials?
Unlike a typical stand-up special, Queer Riot weaves live performances with honest, unscripted conversations between the comedians backstage. This dual structure creates a richer experience — you get the laughs and the heart, making it feel more like a documentary portrait than a conventional comedy showcase.
What are some movies similar to Queer Riot?
If you enjoyed Queer Riot, you might also like The Aristocrats (2005), Richard Pryor: Live in Concert (1979), The Original Kings of Comedy (2000), or Dave Chappelle: The Bird Revelation (2017). These titles share a love of live comedy performance and offer a range of styles and voices.
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