Watch Queen of Ireland

The Queen of Ireland documentary follows the life journey of Rory O'Neill AKA Panti Bliss, Ireland's most famous drag queen. The film takes us through the transformation of O'Neill, from a shy boy growing up in Ballinrobe to a confident, successful performer living in Dublin. The film is directed by Conor Horgan and produced by Katie Holly.

The film opens with a series of clips from Panti's most famous performances, including her appearance on The Late Late Show, Ireland's most popular TV chat show, where she was asked to identify members of the Irish establishment who were against same-sex marriage. This incident, known as "Pantigate," led to a wider discussion of homophobia in Ireland and the role of the LGBT community in Irish society.

The film then delves into Panti's background, starting with his childhood in Ballinrobe. We hear from his siblings and classmates, who recall his love of dressing up and his passion for theater. We also see photos and home movies of him as a child, which give us a sense of the fun-loving, creative boy he was.

As Panti grew older, he gradually came to terms with his sexuality, but also faced discrimination, both at home and in the wider community. He sought refuge in Dublin, where he found acceptance and, eventually, fame. The documentary examines Panti's rise to fame through interviews with drag queens, filmmakers, and others in the entertainment industry.

The turning point in Panti's career came when he spoke out about homophobia in Ireland. When a TV talk show invited him to speak about same-sex marriage, he named individuals who, he felt, were opposed to it. This led to a public outcry, and Panti found himself at the center of a movement for LGBT rights.

The documentary covers the aftermath of this incident, including the public demonstrations and debates that followed. It also explores Panti's personal life, including his relationships with his friends and family, and his struggles with alcoholism.

Overall, The Queen of Ireland is a powerful documentary that captures the essence of one of Ireland's most iconic figures. It shows how Panti Bliss has used drag as a means of creative expression and as a way of making a political statement. It also highlights the struggles and triumphs of the LGBT community in Ireland, and the progress that has been made in recent years.

The editing of the documentary is fast-paced and energetic, with a lively soundtrack that captures the spirit of Panti's performances. The cinematography is also excellent, with stunning shots of Ireland's landscapes and cityscapes, as well as intimate footage of Panti and his friends.

The film is not just a celebration of Panti's life and career, but also a call to action for those who believe in equality and social justice. It is a film that will inspire and entertain audiences both inside and outside of Ireland, and will be remembered as a tribute to one of the country's most important cultural icons.

In conclusion, The Queen of Ireland is a wonderful exploration of the life and work of one of Ireland's most beloved drag queens. It is a gripping, emotional journey that will leave viewers feeling moved, entertained, and enlightened. The documentary is a must-see for anyone interested in LGBT rights, Irish culture, or simply great storytelling.