Drag‑nun documentary Hunky Jesus to open 40th BFI Flare Festival

 A new feature documentary celebrating San Francisco’s most irreverent Easter tradition is set to make its world premiere at the 40th BFI Flare: London LGBTQIA+ Film Festival on 18 March.

Tigerlily Pictures’ Hunky Jesus will open the festival with a vivid exploration of the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence - the activist order of queer and trans “drag nuns” who have spent more than forty years blending performance, protest and humour in the pursuit of social justice.

Directed by Jennifer M. Kroot, the film centres on the 2023 edition of the Sisters’ famed Easter Sunday event, an exuberant outdoor celebration featuring drag performances, live music and a competition that crowns the year’s “Hunky Jesus” and “Foxy Mary” from a line‑up of dazzlingly costumed participants. Hosted by Sister Roma alongside RuPaul’s Drag Race alum Honey Mahogany, the event has become a cherished staple of San Francisco’s queer cultural calendar.

Kroot’s documentary weaves together footage from the 2023 celebration with rare archival material, interviews, theatrical sequences and first‑hand testimonies that trace the history and impact of the Sisters’ work. Actor and activist George Takei provides partial narration, highlighting the group’s message of “radical joy” at a time of renewed global debate over identity, faith and freedom of expression.

The film also features conversations with the Sisters’ honorary “Saints”, including Honey Mahogany, as well as religious figures Father Donal Godfrey and Sister Barbara Battista, offering contrasting insights into spirituality, community and defiance.

Reflecting on the project, Kroot said: “I’ve always been drawn to communities that create connection through creativity and courage. The Sisters…turn joy into a form of resistance. It felt more important than ever to capture their story on film.”

Sister Roma added: “Easter is high camp… Jesus is the hero in that story and Hunky Jesus is our hero! This film is queer, campy fun that celebrates the creativity, humour and joy of LGBTQ+ culture.”