Hello, Queernundrum listeners! Get ready to dive into a world of magic, music, and meaningful storytelling as we explore the highly anticipated Wicked movie, set to hit theaters in 2024. Directed by Jon M. Chu and starring Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande, this two-part adaptation of the Broadway phenomenon promises to reimagine Oz like never before.

Join us as we discuss the star-studded cast, dazzling costumes, and the emotional depth of the Wicked story. We’ll also unpack its connections to The Wizard of Oz and explore why Wicked resonates so deeply with the LGBTQ+ community, from its themes of otherness and acceptance to its campy theatricality and celebration of chosen family.

So, grab your broomstick—or your bubble—and let’s soar into the enchanting world of Wicked!

Intro music by Jahzzar “Please Listen Carefully” “Jahzzar (betterwithmusic.com) CC BY-SA” and Outro music by Scott Holmes “Acoustic Indie Folk” @ scottianholmes@live.com.

Editor: H. Greystone via FinalCut Pro

Writer: G. Thoren

Welcome back, Queernundrum listeners! This week, we’re diving into the heartfelt and hilariously relatable world of Somebody Somewhere, the HBO series that’s redefining small-town life and queer representation on screen. Inspired by the life of comedian and cabaret performer Bridget Everett, Somebody Somewhere follows Sam, a woman navigating grief, rediscovery, and connection in her Kansas hometown.

Join us as we unpack the show’s themes of chosen family, resilience, and the joy of finding your voice. We’ll also highlight the standout performances from Bridget Everett, Jeff Hiller, and Murray Hill, and discuss why this series resonates so deeply with the LGBTQ+ community.

Grab your favorite beverage, get comfy, and let’s celebrate the beauty of Somebody Somewhere.

Somebody Somewhere is an HBO comedy-drama series that follows Sam (played by Bridget Everett), a woman in her 40s living in her small Kansas hometown, struggling to find her place after the loss of her sister.

We dive into Bridget Everett’s personal touch, queer representation in small-town America, themes of grief and self-discovery and why Somebody Somewhere Matters.

Intro music by Jahzzar “Please Listen Carefully” “Jahzzar (betterwithmusic.com) CC BY-SA” and Outro music by Scott Holmes “Acoustic Indie Folk” @ scottianholmes@live.com.

Editor: H. Greystone via FinalCut Pro

Writer: G. Thoren

Welcome back, Queernundrum listeners! This week, we’re bringing you a dynamic episode that spans the worlds of classic cinema and modern politics. We’ll explore the life and legacy of James Whale, the openly gay director of Frankenstein and Bride of Frankenstein, whose work revolutionized horror films and gave us timeless stories that reflect the struggles of outsiders.

Then, we’ll shift gears to discuss President Joe Biden’s long-standing commitment to LGBTQ+ rights, from his early advocacy as a senator to his groundbreaking policies as president. Join us as we connect the dots between art and activism, showcasing how visibility and allyship create lasting change.

Grab your favorite beverage, get comfy, and let’s dive into this inspiring journey from Hollywood to the White House.

Episode Highlights:

James Whale – Hollywood’s Master of Monsters:

• Explore Whale’s groundbreaking work in cinema, including his iconic films Frankenstein (1931) and Bride of Frankenstein (1935).
• We how Whale’s identity as an openly gay man may or may not influenced his storytelling, particularly the themes of otherness, societal rejection, and resilience.

Joe Biden – An Ally in Action:

• Highlight Biden’s pivotal moments in LGBTQ+ advocacy, including his early opposition to the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA) and his public support for same-sex marriage in 2012.
• Explore his presidency’s accomplishments, such as the executive order extending federal protections for LGBTQ+ individuals and his administration’s efforts to pass the Equality Act.
• Celebrate Biden’s appointments of LGBTQ+ leaders like Pete Buttigieg and Dr. Rachel Levine, showcasing his commitment to representation and inclusion.

Connecting Art and Activism:

• We discuss how James Whale’s films and Joe Biden’s policies both represent a fight against societal exclusion and the power of embracing one’s authentic self.
• Highlight the shared message of resilience and progress, from Whale’s subversive cinematic themes to Biden’s legislative efforts to ensure dignity and equality for all.

Intro music by Jahzzar “Please Listen Carefully” “Jahzzar (betterwithmusic.com) CC BY-SA” and Outro music by Scott Holmes “Acoustic Indie Folk” @ scottianholmes@live.com.

Editor: H. Greystone via FinalCut Pro

Writer: G. Thoren