Drag Race icon Precious Paula Nicole crowned Best Actress at LA’s CinePride Festival
– 1 min read
Filipino Drag Race icon Precious Paula Nicole has added another glittering accolade to her name, clinching the Best Lead Performance award at the CinePride Film Festival in Los Angeles on 15 September.
Known for her trailblazing victory as the inaugural champion of Drag Race Philippines, Precious Paula Nicole captivated audiences with her portrayal of Sampaguita in the short film Lip Sync Assassin. The film, which had its world premiere earlier this month at Landmark Theatres Sunset in West Hollywood, tells the story of a glamorous drag queen who moonlights as a contract killer to support her daughter and ailing mother.
Directed by Jon Galvez, Lip Sync Assassin also took home the Best Director award. The film features a diverse cast including Peewee O’Hara, child actress Erin Espiritu, Argel Saycon and fellow drag performer Mrs. Tan.
Critics praised Precious Paula Nicole’s performance for its emotional depth and fierce charisma, with many calling it a breakout moment for Filipino drag artistry on the international stage.
Writing on Instagram, Precious said: Thank you to CinePride Film Festival for being an incredible platform that amplifies LGBTQIA+ stories through the power of film. To the jury, thank you so much! I’m beyond honoured that you picked me for the best lead performance award."
Following its successful LA run, Lip Sync Assassin is set to make its Philippine debut at the Sinag Maynila Film Festival, running from 24 - 30 September in select cinemas across the country.
