Drag Race Down Under is back for its fourth season, and this time, it marks a significant change in leadership. RuPaul, the long-time host and face of the franchise, has passed the torch to the fabulous Michelle Visage.
Known for her strong presence and keen eye for talent, Michelle is ready to lead the queens through this new chapter.
With ten eager queens from Australia and New Zealand, the competition promises to be fierce, fun, and full of drama. This article will discuss what to expect in this exciting season, the contestants, the judges, and how you can watch the show.
New Beginnings with Michelle Visage
Michelle Visage is no stranger to Drag Race. She has been a judge on the American version since Season 3 and has a close friendship with RuPaul.
Her new role as host for Drag Race Down Under shows her commitment to the drag community. Michelle brings her unique flair and experience, making her the perfect choice to guide the queens.
Michelle’s hosting style is energetic and supportive. She has a passion for drag and a deep understanding of what it takes to succeed in this art form.
Under her guidance, the queens will receive constructive feedback while also feeling encouraged to express themselves. The shift in hosting is not just a change of face; it symbolizes a fresh approach to the show, focusing on the queens’ growth and creativity.
Ten Queens Ready to Shine
This season introduces ten new queens who are eager to showcase their talent and personality.
These queens come from different backgrounds and bring diverse styles to the competition. They are ready to compete for the coveted title of Down Under’s Next Drag Superstar.
Let’s meet the queens who will sashay their way to the main stage:
Brenda Bressed (24, Melbourne, VIC): Known for her vibrant outfits and high-energy performances, Brenda is ready to bring the fun to the competition.
Freya Armani (24, Brisbane, QLD): With a background in fashion, Freya combines style and substance. Her runway looks are always a showstopper.
Karna Ford (27, Sydney, NSW): Karna is a fierce performer with a passion for storytelling through drag. Her performances are emotional and powerful.
Lazy Susan (32, Melbourne, VIC): This queen knows how to entertain. Lazy Susan brings humor and a laid-back style that makes her a fan favorite.
Lucina Innocence (28, Auckland, NZ): Lucina is known for her glamorous looks and sophisticated performances. She aims to impress the judges with her elegance.
Mandy Moob (33, Brisbane, QLD): Mandy is a seasoned performer with a unique style that blends comedy and drama, making her a well-rounded competitor.
Max Drag Queen (24, Melbourne, VIC): Max is all about pushing boundaries. Their performances are bold and thought-provoking, often challenging societal norms.
Nikita Iman (27, Auckland, NZ): With a background in dance, Nikita brings fluidity and grace to her performances, impressing the audience with her movements.
Olivia Dreams (26, Wellington, NZ): Olivia combines fantasy and reality in her drag. Her imaginative looks and performances are sure to leave a lasting impression.
Vybe (32, Sydney, NSW): Vybe is a force of nature on stage. With an infectious personality and impressive vocal skills, she knows how to command attention.
These queens are ready to compete for a cash prize and the title of Down Under’s Next Drag Superstar. Each of them has a unique story and background, which will add depth to the competition. Audiences will see their journeys unfold throughout the season.
The Judges’ Panel
Michelle Visage will not be judging alone. She is joined by the talented Rhys Nicholson, who has also been a familiar face in the drag scene.
Rhys is known for his wit and charm, making him a perfect fit for the judging panel. Together, Michelle and Rhys will provide insightful feedback to the queens as they face various challenges.
Additionally, the show will feature a lineup of exciting guest judges. These guest judges bring their own flair to the competition, offering fresh perspectives and diverse experiences.
Still from Drag Race Down Under (Credit: WOW)
Some of the notable guest judges this season include:
G Flip: A talented musician known for their catchy pop songs, G Flip will bring a youthful energy to the panel.
Sasha Colby: The Season 15 winner of RuPaul’s Drag Race, Sasha is not only a talented queen but also a role model for many aspiring drag artists.
Ladyhawke: An accomplished singer and actress from New Zealand, Ladyhawke’s presence will surely improve the competition.
Sophie Monk: A media personality and singer, Sophie has a keen eye for talent and will provide valuable insights.
Peach PRC: This popstar is known for her infectious music and upbeat personality. She will add a fun element to the judging.
Matt Okine: An actor and comedian, Matt’s humor and charm will bring a lighthearted atmosphere to the panel.
The combination of Michelle, Rhys, and the guest judges creates a dynamic and supportive environment for the queens. They will encourage the contestants while also pushing them to deliver their best performances.
Mentorship from Past Winners
In a first for Drag Race Down Under, past winners will mentor the current queens. Kita Mean, Spankie Jackzon, and Isis Avis Loren, who have all claimed victory in previous seasons, will share their experiences and insights.
Having these seasoned queens as mentors adds an extra layer of excitement to the competition. They understand the challenges the queens face and can offer guidance on how to face the pressures of the competition.
Kita Mean: Known for her humor and creativity, Kita will help the queens find their unique voices. She can provide tips on how to stand out while still being true to oneself.
Spankie Jackzon: With her incredible performance skills, Spankie will focus on helping the queens perfect their acts. Her mentorship will be invaluable as the contestants prepare for their performances.
Isis Avis Loren: A master of glam and style, Isis will assist the queens with their runway looks. She will encourage them to embrace their individuality and express themselves through fashion.
Having these queens involved not only enhances the competition but also creates a sense of community. The queens will feel supported as they learn from those who have walked the same path.
The Competition Format
Drag Race Down Under follows a familiar format that fans love. Each episode features a series of challenges that test the queens’ charisma, uniqueness, nerve, and talent. The challenges will range from fashion and performance to comedy and acting.
The queens will face various tasks that allow them to showcase their skills. They may have to create stunning runway looks, participate in lip sync battles, or engage in group performances. These challenges are designed to push the contestants out of their comfort zones and encourage creativity.
At the end of each episode, the queens will be judged based on their performances. The top performers will earn accolades, while those who fall short will face the risk of elimination.
The phrase “Lip Sync for Your Life” will come into play as queens must battle it out in a lip sync showdown to avoid going home. One queen will “shantay and stay,” while another will “sashay away.”
This competitive format keeps viewers engaged and excited as they root for their favorite queens. The stakes are high, and the tension builds as the season progresses.
What Makes This Season Unique
This season of Drag Race Down Under stands out for several reasons. The introduction of Michelle Visage as host is a significant change that fans are eager to see.
Her presence brings a new energy to the show, and viewers can expect to see her connect with the queens in a special way.
Additionally, the inclusion of previous winners as mentors is a groundbreaking aspect of this season.
It creates a unique opportunity for the queens to learn from those who have succeeded before them. This mentorship will add depth to the competition and inspire the contestants to improve their performances.
The diverse backgrounds of the ten queens also set this season apart. Each queen brings her unique style, story, and perspective, making for an exciting mix of talent. Fans can look forward to seeing how these queens support each other while also vying for the title.
Finally, the lineup of guest judges is a highlight. With each episode featuring different judges, the queens will face new challenges and feedback, keeping the competition fresh and dynamic.
Where and When to Watch
For those who want to binge-watch previous seasons, they are available to stream on WOW Presents Plus. Fans can revisit the iconic moments and performances that made Drag Race Down Under a beloved franchise.
What to Expect in Season 4
Fans of Drag Race Down Under can expect an exciting season filled with fierce competition, stunning performances, and heartfelt moments. The combination of new talent, a fresh host, and returning mentors will create a dynamic viewing experience.
As the queens showcase their creativity, they will also share their stories, struggles, and triumphs. This season will not only celebrate drag but also highlight the importance of community and support within the art form.
Expect to see unforgettable runway looks, jaw-dropping performances, and plenty of drama as the queens face the challenges ahead. Each episode will bring new surprises and showcase the incredible talent of the contestants.
Final Thoughts
Drag Race Down Under Season 4 promises to be a thrilling ride for fans of the series.
With Michelle Visage at the helm, ten talented queens ready to compete, and a lineup of exciting guest judges, this season is set to be memorable. The support from past winners adds a unique twist, creating a nurturing environment for the contestants.
As the queens step onto the main stage, they will strive to prove that they have what it takes to be crowned Down Under’s Next Drag Superstar. Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to the series, this season is sure to entertain and inspire.
So grab your popcorn, settle in, and prepare for a spectacular season of Drag Race Down Under. Drag Race Down Under Season 4 is now available for streaming, and it’s a must-watch for anyone who loves drag and fabulous entertainment.
Heartbreak is tough, especially during medical crises and career betrayals. How can one make heartbreak easier to bear? By embracing your inner monster, along with your rage. In Caroline Lindy’s film Your Monster, an up-and-coming actress faces heartbreak when her big break and relationship end because she has to get treatment for cancer.
Her narcissistic director boyfriend cannot handle it and leaves her when she is at her most vulnerable. She feels lost until a monster from her closet shows up to teach her how to embrace her anger in this charming and unique horror-romantic comedy.
What Is Your Monster About?
Laura, played by Melissa Barrera, is a mess. The talented young actress is looking forward to her big break with director Jacob, played by Edmund Donovan. Jacob has written the central role in his brand-new Broadway musical just for her. Everything seems perfect until Laura is diagnosed with cancer.
This news changes everything. Jacob, unable to handle her illness, breaks up with her during her treatment. His cowardice hits Laura hard, and she spirals into depression. She spends her days crying and eating her feelings.
While Laura is in this deep sadness, a monster, played by Tommy Dewey, appears. This sarcastic humanoid beast has lived in her home, hiding in the closet all along. He arrives to remind Laura of her inner strength and help her embrace her emotions.
The monster teaches Laura to find her voice and gain the confidence to audition for the role that was written for her. However, in a cruel twist, the part goes to a famous actress named Jackie, played by Meghann Fahy, who did not even audition. Instead, Laura is left awkwardly as the understudy at Jacob’s request.
The Monster and Laura Have a Long History
The film begins on a dark and stormy night when Laura is having a pity party. The monster crashes this party. He has lived in Laura’s childhood home, hiding in her closet. He wants her to move out because he is tired of being there. However, seeing Laura in such a sad state, the monster takes pity on her. He allows her two weeks to pull herself together.
During these two weeks, Laura and the monster bond over Chinese takeout and classic films. The monster encourages Laura to pursue her dreams and stand up for herself. As they spend more time together, their relationship evolves. They move from being antagonistic roommates to frenemies, and eventually to romantic interests.
When the two weeks are almost up, the monster expresses a desire for Laura to stay. He shows her his lair, which is filled with old stuffed animals and other childhood items. During this visit, the monster reveals that he and Laura have a history. When Laura was younger, she had a frightening encounter with the monster, which ended with her pushing him away. After that, he disappeared until now.
Jacob Isn’t the Only One To Betray Laura
While Jacob’s betrayal starts the film off on a bad note, it is not the only betrayal Laura faces. Throughout the movie, Laura’s friend Mazie, played by Kayla Foster, assures her that she is Laura’s “ride or die.” However, Mazie frequently leaves Laura for auditions or for her own convenience. This strange behavior from Mazie becomes more noticeable as the film progresses.
Mazie seems supportive but often chooses to prioritize her own career over her friendship with Laura. At one point, she downplays the idea of auditioning for Jacob’s production, but then she shows up for the first rehearsal. This inconsistency makes Laura question her loyalty. Laura also catches Jacob flirting with another woman during a rehearsal, which adds to her feelings of betrayal.
After a particularly intense rehearsal, Laura confronts Jacob, expressing her anger at him for his treatment of her. Mazie, however, seems to side with Jacob, which frustrates Laura even more. When Laura calls out Mazie for her constant absence, Mazie retaliates with a hurtful comment about Laura’s lack of support, including the absence of a boyfriend. This low blow hurts Laura deeply.
Later, Mazie and Jacob have a serious talk that turns intimate. Laura, feeling betrayed and alone, comes home to realize she neglected a special occasion with the monster.
Eventually, she discovers that her so-called friend Mazie has been seeing Jacob behind her back. Mazie’s betrayal cuts deep, especially since it began before Laura’s cancer diagnosis. Mazie begs for forgiveness, but Laura’s response is cold and firm: she does not forgive her.
The Monster’s Reality Is Ambiguous
A big question lingers throughout Your Monster: is the monster real? First, there is the issue of whether a monster could actually live in a hidden part of Laura’s home. The film introduces supernatural elements that might explain the monster’s existence, even if they seem odd.
The monster has his own preferences and conflicts with Laura frequently, but he also becomes a perfect match for her. He possesses secret musical talent and a passion for the theater. More importantly, he constantly reinforces Laura’s worth when she doubts herself.
Even when he learns that she spent the night with Jacob, his anger comes from a place of care. He emphasizes that Jacob does not love her, which helps Laura remember her own values.
Still from Your Monster (Credit: Vertical)
Another point to consider is that no one else verifies the monster’s existence. This includes a costume party scene where Laura and the monster dance publicly. While it is possible that others simply ignore him, it leaves room for doubt about whether he is truly real.
Two key moments suggest that the monster might not exist. One instance occurs when Laura sees Jacob being intimate with another woman at the party. Laura freezes in shock as the monster angrily pushes past her to confront Jacob. When this happens, it subtly implies that Laura’s anger is a part of her identity that emerges when she feels wronged.
Additionally, during an argument after Laura reveals her encounter with Jacob, the monster yells at her, “Look at yourself!” Laura responds, “I am looking at myself!”
This exchange raises the possibility that the monster represents Laura’s suppressed anger about her treatment. The film leaves it ambiguous until the end, but it seems likely that the monster is a manifestation of Laura’s inner turmoil.
How Does Your Monster End?
Much of Your Monster focuses on Laura’s belief that Jackie is involved with Jacob. Jackie, who got the role without auditioning, also seems flirtatious with Jacob. However, when Jackie discovers that Jacob and Laura were once together, her perspective shifts. She is shocked to learn about Laura’s illness and feels guilty for not knowing the truth.
Later, Jackie meets Laura for a walk to clear up the misunderstandings. She explains that she did not know Laura was sick or that she had a past with Jacob. Jackie is upset with Jacob for his actions and helps Laura find a way to reclaim her role in the production. Jackie arranges for Laura to secretly take over the role for the film’s premiere, giving her a chance to shine.
Laura performs brilliantly, and the audience applauds her talent. However, during intermission, Jacob becomes furious over her unexpected performance. Laura seems distant, caught up in her own thoughts. Jacob angrily confronts her about her actions, leading to a heated argument. Laura warns him to be careful with his words, threatening to “rip his. F*cking. Throat out!!”
When the performance resumes, Laura appears covered in blood, and the atmosphere shifts dramatically. During intermission, just before her big song, the monster appears behind Jacob. He turns around, confused as he sees the monster. This moment serves as a turning point in the story.
The monster attacks Jacob, and Laura reconciles with him afterward. Their moment is both sweet and violent. The film cuts to Laura delivering an impressive performance, but the audience soon realizes that Jacob is lying dead on stage. The graphic nature of this scene shocks everyone, and Laura stands there, thrilled yet blood-covered.
While it seems clear that the monster exists in Laura’s mind, the scene after Jacob’s death complicates things. Laura is not actually covered in blood, suggesting that what happened may have been a vision.
Earlier in the film, she admits to the monster that she blacked out during her audition and did not remember it afterward. This leads to the interpretation that she likely envisioned ripping Jacob’s throat out, though the ending remains ambiguous.
Themes of Anger and Healing
Your Monster touches on important themes, particularly anger and healing. Laura’s journey shows how anger can be a powerful emotion, one that can fuel change. Her relationship with the monster helps her recognize that anger is not something to fear but to understand. By embracing her anger, Laura begins to reclaim her life and her identity.
Another significant theme is betrayal. Jacob’s and Mazie’s actions demonstrate how betrayal can come from those we trust the most. These betrayals add layers to Laura’s heartbreak, making her journey to healing more complex. The film highlights the importance of recognizing who truly supports us and who does not.
Still from Your Monster (Credit: Vertical)
The film also emphasizes the importance of self-advocacy. Laura learns to stand up for herself, both in her relationships and her career. She evolves from a passive character into someone who fights for her dreams and desires. This transformation is central to the story, showing how personal growth can emerge from difficult experiences.
Conclusion
Your Monster is a unique blend of horror and romance that shows the depths of heartbreak and the journey to healing. Through Laura’s story, viewers see the importance of embracing one’s emotions, including anger, to reclaim one’s power.
The film’s ambiguous ending invites viewers to consider the complexities of identity and the role of supportive relationships in our lives.
By facing the challenges of betrayal, illness, and self-discovery, Laura’s character resonates with anyone who has faced adversity. In embracing her inner monster, Laura reminds us all that it is okay to feel and express our anger, ultimately leading to empowerment and healing.
