Incredible. Good music too...

Rating: 10/10 (29 May 2004)

The performance by John Cameron Mitchell in this film is incredible. I'm amazed he was overlooked, at least for a nomination, by the Academy. JCM does a wonderful job of portraying a character that's both incredibly strong and willful while also obviously vulnerable and fumbling. He does a solid job of making this character funny too.
It may be difficult for some people to look past the drag and outlandish character of Hedwig, but the story told of personal growth and how we define ourselves and find our identities is just plain amazing. What would you sacrifice for freedom? How would you go on living when you find your sacrifice is rendered unnecessary? Great stuff in a highly underrated film.
Additionally, the music of Stephen Trask is rather good and works great in the context of the story. He writes catchy pop rock songs that will stick in your head after seeing this movie. As a recreational guitar player, I found myself playing these songs for weeks. He ranges the songwriting from basic hard rock with good hooks and chunky riffs (Tear Me Down, Angry Inch), to gentle touching introspective songs maybe you could even hear Phil Collins singing (Wicked Little Town, Origin of Love). JCM's vocals are top notch, and his similarity in style to Bowie fits right in with the character.
Anyway, get over the fact its about a semi-transsexual unknown eastern block rocker, and give it a try.