The Rock Musical Resusitated

Rating: Null/10 (28 July 2003)

"Hedwig and the Angry Inch" is not for the weak of heart. It is a sentimental story that combines glam-rock antics, beautiful art direction, and a kick ass performances to create the wildest musical to hit the screen in years. But watch out--this thing may be too hot for some to touch.
For one, it deals with uncomfortable, counter-cultural matters, mainly transexuality, and shamelessly so. The title character's flamboyance will also erk many straight-laced (no pun intended) viewers not used to this sort of thing. Maybe this is why Hedwig got snubbed by the Academy, despite containing one of the best performances (John Mitchell Cameron as Hedwig), some of the best original songs ("Tear Me Down," "Wicked Little Town") and vibrant art direction.
Still unorthodoxy should is never a good reason to skip a flick, especially one so entertaining as this. It takes a character that may be difficult to identify with on the surface, and makes its plight completely understandable. And what is Hedwig in search of? All the standard needs: love, a sense of self, stardom, and a voice. But Hedwig's story is anything but standard.
It is this combination of the typical with the uniquq that makes this movie rock. Catch it if you can.
Rating: 8 out of 10