If you loved the heartwarming and hilarious journey of drag queens in 'To Wong Foo, Thanks for Everything! Julie Newmar,' you're in for a treat. This article explores 10 movies and shows that capture the same spirit of self-discovery, humor, and fabulousness. Whether you're a fan of drag culture, road trips, or stories about found family, these recommendations will keep you entertained and inspired.

La Cage aux Folles (1978)
Description: This French comedy, like 'To Wong Foo', centers on drag performers and explores themes of family, love, and acceptance. Both films use humor to address serious issues about identity and societal expectations.
Fact: The film was adapted into a successful Broadway musical. It was one of the first mainstream films to portray a gay relationship positively. The title refers to the nightclub where much of the story takes place.


Tootsie (1982)
Description: While not about drag queens, 'Tootsie' shares 'To Wong Foo's' exploration of gender roles and identity. Both films feature protagonists who adopt female personas, leading to personal growth and a deeper understanding of gender dynamics.
Fact: Dustin Hoffman received an Oscar nomination for his performance. The film was a critical and commercial success. The role was originally offered to Peter Sellers, who passed away before production began.


Victor/Victoria (1982)
Description: This musical comedy, like 'To Wong Foo', plays with gender roles and identity. Both films feature strong, independent female characters who challenge societal norms through their performances and personal choices.
Fact: Julie Andrews stars as a woman pretending to be a man pretending to be a woman. The film was adapted from a 1933 German film. Blake Edwards, Andrews' husband, directed the film.


Mrs. Doubtfire (1993)
Description: Like 'To Wong Foo', this film features a male character adopting a female persona, though for different reasons. Both films use humor to explore themes of identity, family, and the fluidity of gender roles.
Fact: Robin Williams' performance is considered one of his best. The film was a massive box office hit. The makeup process for Williams' transformation took several hours each day.


The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert (1994)
Description: Like 'To Wong Foo', this film follows a group of drag queens on a road trip, exploring themes of identity, acceptance, and self-expression. Both films celebrate the flamboyant and transformative power of drag, while also addressing the challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals.
Fact: The film won an Academy Award for Best Costume Design. The bus used in the film, named Priscilla, is now a tourist attraction in Australia. The movie was groundbreaking for its positive portrayal of drag queens in mainstream cinema.


The Birdcage (1996)
Description: A remake of 'La Cage aux Folles', this film shares 'To Wong Foo's' focus on drag culture and the challenges of maintaining personal identity in the face of societal pressure. Both films use comedy to explore themes of acceptance and family.
Fact: Robin Williams and Nathan Lane star as the lead couple. The film was a box office success and remains a beloved classic. The drag performances in the film are inspired by real-life drag shows.


Hedwig and the Angry Inch (2001)
Description: This rock musical explores gender identity and self-discovery, themes central to 'To Wong Foo'. Both films feature charismatic protagonists who challenge societal norms through their performances and personal journeys.
Fact: The film is based on the off-Broadway musical of the same name. John Cameron Mitchell, who plays Hedwig, also wrote and directed the film. The soundtrack was critically acclaimed and remains popular among fans.


Hairspray (2007)
Description: This musical, like 'To Wong Foo', celebrates individuality and challenges societal norms. Both films feature vibrant characters who fight for acceptance and equality, set against colorful, musical backdrops.
Fact: The film is based on the Broadway musical, which was inspired by John Waters' 1988 film. John Travolta plays Edna Turnblad, a role traditionally played by a man in drag. The film's themes of racial integration are as relevant today as they were in the 1960s setting.


Kinky Boots (2005)
Description: This film shares the theme of transformation and acceptance, much like 'To Wong Foo'. It tells the story of a struggling shoe factory that finds new life by producing boots for drag performers, highlighting the intersection of traditional business and drag culture.
Fact: The film was adapted into a successful Broadway musical, which won multiple Tony Awards. The story is inspired by real events. The title refers to the high-heeled boots designed for drag queens and cross-dressers.


RuPaul's Drag Race (2009)
Description: This reality competition show celebrates drag culture, much like 'To Wong Foo'. Both highlight the artistry, creativity, and resilience of drag queens, while also addressing issues of LGBTQ+ rights and acceptance.
Fact: The show has won multiple Emmy Awards. RuPaul, the host, is one of the most famous drag queens in the world. The show has spawned numerous international versions and spin-offs.
