The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert (1994)

The critic praises this Australian frock opera for its bitchy wit, fabulous photography and strong performances while addressing serious issues with satirical accuracy. Terence Stamp is singled out as a revelation in the central role.

The review calls the film a brash, liberating and poignant road movie that never gets bogged down thanks to its disco tunes and crackling dialogue. Elliott's Fellini-esque visual panache and the anchoring performances are highlighted as especially impressive.

The critic finds the film a tuneful, camp odyssey with strong performances, especially Terence Stamp's sensational turn as Bernadette, and delirious design, but notes it is not always as funny as it thinks and that the mix of comedy and insights does not entirely succeed.

Turan praises the bawdy humor, outrageous musical numbers, and ribald interactions among the performers as sure-fire entertainment. He notes a strain of conventional sentimentality that takes some edge off the fun but does not ruin it.

Ebert finds the film surprising and well-done in its portrayal of Terence Stamp as an aging transsexual drag performer. He praises the convincing humanity Stamp brings to the role and notes the story ultimately focuses on the life of a middle-aged person in a tiresome job.

Maslin calls the film a flamboyantly colorful and warmly entertaining culture clash about defiant drag performers on a bus tour. She highlights its generous spirit and old-fashioned belief in happily ever after despite the outrageous elements.

Stratton describes it as a cheerfully vulgar and bitchy but warmhearted road movie with an amazing star turn by Terence Stamp. He highlights the outlandish dialogue, wild costumes, high spirits, and strong production values while noting it should appeal widely to tolerant audiences.