Chocolate Thunderpussy’s Playlist is an uproarious and moving documentary made
over the course of thirty years, following Samantha (a.k.a. Chocolate Thunderpussy)
and her friends as they help each other navigate the trans experience in 1990s Denver.
The film shows us the humanity of transgender people, sex workers, and homeless
people with laughter and insight.
It’s a joyful celebration of sex workers and raucous, playful fun. Between performances,
fun times with the girls, and hilarious sexual adventures with the boys, Samantha talks
about sex changes, pop stars, and how her mother, a boosting woman turned
Jehovah’s witness, expected her to be a star. Meanwhile Janet delves into where “the
American dream” ends and hers’ begins, and Lisette goes to Vegas to become the
number one transgender escort. We learn the value of team work as together they pick
up seemingly every guy at a sex shop. We watch her getting ready to perform with the
help of her houseboys. Our time in the ’90s culminates with Samantha on stage
performing “The Sun will come out Tomorrow” from Annie. The screen fades to black as
the crowd cheers. And that’s only the first half!
Chocolate Thunderpussy’s Playlist stands apart from many other queer stories by
showing trans people experiencing joyous long lives instead of tragedy. Its many
themes are tied together through the warmth, relationships, and comedic storytelling of
Chocolate Thunderpussy. The film is a wild and fun experience to share with an
audience, everyone laughing together while connecting with trans women and getting to
be part of their lives. In a time when trans rights are under attack, Chocolate
Thunderpussy’s Playlist dares to fight back with comedy, empathy, and a deep look into
the lives of Samantha and her friends.
