“Midnight in Phoenix” questions what happens if drag queens were actually criminals

Midnight in Phoenix begins with “something that’s been swirling around the news and social media lately, drag queens.” While the opening voiceover seems to be leading viewers into a documentary defending the existence of drag queens, it actually asks the questions that lead to the romantic crime drama that follows: “What if these drag queens actually followed through on the crimes they’ve been accused of?” and “Imagine, if you will, a world where drag queens were actually committing these crimes.

The idea that drag queens would harm others is absurd, right?”

Yes . . . and no.

While Midnight in Phoenix features a drag queen as one of the central characters, the film quickly turns from its documentary-ish introduction into a unique story about the romance of two people that begins and deepens as they get swept up into a crime simply by being in the wrong place at the wrong time.

Gay bar patron Ezra (Richardson Pierre) is so enamored with drag performer Levi (Dueal Andrews) that he invites her out for a meal. But that fateful night leads them to a chaotic misunderstanding at a robbery scene that sets not only the premise of the film in motion but the protagonists themselves as they hit the road on the lam from the cops.

As they evade the law, their relationship builds, illustrating that love and loyalty can result from even the most unlikeliest of situations.

The film even achieves musical status through Levi’s lip-synching performances.

In addition to the voiceover that starts the film, the characters also convey their feelings with voiceovers throughout the film, while propelling the story forward. For example, Levi explains how drag is his life: “When passion turns into a career, and when a career leads to your passion, one can reimagine if the world falls in love with your passion.” Also in voiceover, both characters describe how the other fits into their life. Levi says, “To be everything and nothing is what I desire. How you’ve opened up to me is everything I desire. Am I what you really want?” To which Ezra replies in voiceover, “You’ve allowed me that freedom. A space to be myself, explore all avenues to ensure my mental health.

I feel safe. I feel wanted. Am I what you envisioned?”

May 27 was the worldwide premier for Midnight in Phoenix from acclaimed LGBTQ filmmaker Anthony Bawn and Breaking Glass Pictures. “At its core, Midnight in Phoenix is a celebration of self-discovery and the strength found in community,” said Rich Wolff, CEO of Breaking Glass Pictures. “Anthony Bawn brings a unique and bold vision to the screen, creating a film that is both deeply moving and wildly entertaining. We’re thrilled to share this journey with audiences worldwide.”

Anthony Bawn, known for his powerful work in the gay-themed Emo Valley (2024) and the horror movie Bonded (2023), continues his commitment to telling bold, culturally resonant stories that uplift underrepresented voices. He said, “Rich Wolff and Breaking Glass Pictures has allowed me as a filmmaker the space to express my stories in a way I can only see fit! Rich has encouraged me to do whatever ‘within means’, lol, which makes the partnership just that great!”