Jamie Babbit’s classic 90s cult comedy But I’m A Cheerleader heads to Blu-ray this June in a sparkling new 4K-restored Director’s Cut.
Whimsically edgy, sharply humorous and gloriously queer, But I’m a Cheerleader has become a queer cult classic since its release in 1999. Jamie Babbit’s movie was part of a new wave of films that built on a newfound queer confidence as the millennium approached.
Released the same year as Trick, Boy’s Don’t Cry, Go! and Cruel Intentions, But, I’m a Cheerleader paved the way for many LGBTQ+ movies to come as we followed teenager Megan (Natasha Lyonne), whose suburban existence, filled with friends, cheerleading, and all-American fun, is upended when her straight-laced parents suspect she might be a secret lesbian. In a panic, they send her to “True Directions”, a rehabilitation camp run by the strict and prudish Mary (Cathy Moriarty), to mount an intervention led by counsellor Mike (RuPaul Charles). Megan dutifully follows the program — until she develops feelings for another camper (Clea DuVall).
Blending classic 90s rom-com vibes with the sharp satire of a John Waters‘ comedy, But I’m a Cheerleader is a timeless, hilarious and candy-coloured tale of acceptance and love that’s as relevant now as it was on its release; it would launch the careers of a whole host of future stars and continues to provide us with a razor-sharp satirical voice as many modern American communities go backwards rather than forwards in equality and inclusion.
Special features include
But I’m a Cheerleader Class Reunion- Making, But I’m a Cheerleader…in 1999
But I’m a Composer… A chat with Pat Irwin
Student Film: Discharge
Audio commentary with director Jamie Babbit, costume designer Alix Friedberg and production designer Rachel Kamerman
Run time: 90 mins approx Cert: 15
But I’m a Cheerleader – Director’s Cut is on Blu-ray on 21 June from Lionsgate UK
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