Via Zoom: Writer/Director Todd Flaherty’s “Chrissy Judy” at REELING40, Sept. 25, 2022

Submitted by PatrickMcD on September 24, 2022 - 5:54pm

CHICAGO – With drag in its spotlight, but relationships at its core, the comedy “Chrissy Judy” screens on the first weekend of Chicago’s iconic REELING40 LGBTQ+ International Film Festival on Sunday, September 23rd, 2022 (6:30p). Writer/director Todd Flaherty will appear on behalf of the film, click CHRISSY JUDY for info and tickets.

Two drag queens who have an act are motivated by “Judy,” who has been described as a free spirit, a great one-night stand and in favor of staying unattached, and is partnered with his bestie Chrissy, who is harboring a secret love. This was supposed to be the summer it all comes together for the queens, so when Chrissy abruptly announces that he’s moving from New York to live with his boyfriend, a disillusioned Judy is left to examine his life and priorities – both onstage and off.

‘Chrissy Judy,’ Written/Directed by Todd Flaherty (above right)
Photo credit: REELINGFilmFestival.org

Writer/director Todd Flaherty (who also portrays Judy) is making his feature debut in striking black and white – reminiscent of the 1979 film “Manhattan” – and also gives the Judy character hidden depths behind the party boy façade as he attempts to answer the question: … what do you do when your chosen family no longer chooses you?

In an interview via Zoom with writer/director/lead actor Todd Flaherty of “Judy Chrissy,” by Patrick McDonald of HollywoodChicago.com, the filmmaker talks of whether the film is autobiographical and the key to creating proper drag acts …

The 40th edition of REELING International LBGTQ+ Film Festival presents “Chrissy Judy,’ with the filmmaker Todd Flaherty appearing live for a Q&A, 6:30p on September 25th at Landmark’s Century Centre Cinema, 2828 North Clark Street in Chicago. REELING40 runs through October 6th, 2022. For tickets, schedule and all information, click REELINGFilmFestival.org.