Watch Behind the Burly Q

Behind the Burly Q is a compelling and eye-opening documentary that delves into the history of burlesque, the entertainment phenomenon that was exceedingly popular in the United States from the 1860s through the mid-20th century. The film features interviews with over 50 former burlesque dancers, comedians, and producers, as well as classic footage and vintage photographs from the heyday of the genre. Bud Abbott, Alan Alda, and Joan Arline are among the celebrities featured in the documentary, providing their own insights into the industry and what it meant to perform on stage.

The documentary provides a nuanced and multifaceted look into burlesque history, exploring the origins of the genre and tracing its evolution over time. A diverse array of performers share their stories and experiences, shedding light on the many different types of acts that comprised burlesque shows, including comedy, striptease, singing, and dancing. In addition to recounting their own stories, many of the interviewees discuss the challenges and struggles that came with being a performer in a typically male-dominated industry. They discuss societal attitudes towards performers and how they dealt with these challenges, as well as the creative and personal satisfaction that came from performing.

One of the most fascinating aspects of Behind the Burly Q is how the documentary highlights the different styles and approaches that performers took to their craft. Some performers were known for their lavish costumes and grand entrances, while others were renowned for their comedic timing or physical talents. Many performers also discussed the importance of creating a distinctive persona and how they went about developing their characters. Through these stories, the film provides an intimate glimpse into the creative processes and personal experiences of these performers.

In addition to highlighting the performers themselves, Behind the Burly Q also delves into the broader social and cultural context in which burlesque thrived. The documentary explores the impact of censorship on the industry, the role of the mob in the business, and the changing attitudes towards burlesque within the broader culture. One interesting aspect of this is how the producers and marketers of burlesque shows found ways to navigate the changing societal mores and censorship laws, adapting their shows to remain relevant and entertaining.

Overall, Behind the Burly Q is a powerful and thought-provoking documentary that sheds light on an important and often overlooked aspect of American entertainment history. Through its engaging interviews and presentation of archival footage, the film captures both the spectacle and the humanity of the burlesque world. Whether you have a personal connection to the industry or are simply interested in the history of popular entertainment, this documentary is undoubtedly worth watching.

Behind the Burly Q is a 2010 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 37 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.6 and a MetaScore of 60.