“RuPaul’s Drag Race” Stars Didn’t Know Their Film Debut “Stop! That! Train!” Would Be in Theaters: ‘Oh, Party!’ (Exclusive)

Renowned drag queens Ginger Minj, Jujubee, Brooke Lynn Hytes, Symone, and Marcia Marcia Marcia recently gathered at a premier screening of their new film, *Stop! That! Train!*, held at People Inc. in New York City. The event, hosted by OUTspoken, marked a significant milestone as it showcased their feature film debut in what promises to be a vibrant addition to the drag entertainment landscape.

During the panel discussion that followed the screening, Hytes shared insights into the unexpected turn of events that brought them to the silver screen. She noted, “I don’t think any of us knew it was gonna be in theatres when they asked us to do it.” Initially, the cast believed the project was destined for the streaming platform of production company World of Wonder. Only upon joining director Adam Shankman on set did they realise the film would be released in cinemas.

Shankman, who has a long-standing relationship with RuPaul, emphasised the film’s significance as the first theatrical feature from the *Drag Race* universe. “I don’t know what took them so long,” quipped the director, who began collaborating with RuPaul in 1994. He expressed his excitement over the script, credited to writers Christina Freel and Connor Wright, which he described as “really, really funny.” Shankman also highlighted the film’s quick production schedule, revealing that they completed shoots in just 19 days, and many cameo appearances were filmed in a short span.

*Stop! That! Train!* follows the adventures of Ginger Minj and Jujubee, who portray attendants Tess and DeeDee on a chaotic high-speed train journey dubbed the “Glamazonian Express.” Their misadventures unfold amidst a frenetic “Stormaganza” that threatens to throw the train off course and into the heart of Los Angeles. Supporting performances by Symone, Brooke Lynn Hytes, and Marcia Marcia Marcia as first-class attendants further enrich the comedic narrative. RuPaul takes on the unique role of U.S. President Judy Gagwell, while an impressive array of cameos includes figures like Latrice Royale, Monét X Change, and Sarah Michelle Gellar.

Reflecting on the project, Jujubee expressed her pride in the film’s message and its potential impact. “I’m really proud of us,” she stated, noting that the film would convey love and acceptance to its audience. “Even for the people who are scared of us, maybe they’ll fall in love,” she joked, suggesting a hypothetical sequel titled *Start That Train!*

Ginger Minj highlighted the importance of representation within the film, asserting that its humour and silliness are a gateway for audiences to engage with drag culture. “All of the tropes of this movie are so comfortable for people… But there’s that undercurrent of drag that runs through it and I think that’s gonna open up a lot of minds,” she explained. Her sentiments were echoed by Marcia Marcia Marcia, who recounted the surreal experience of seeing herself in a film that she passionately consumes as a frequent moviegoer.

Symone, reflecting on her experience during the world premiere in Los Angeles, expressed a deep sense of accomplishment and unity among the cast. “I felt more proud than anything. I was like, we really did that in 19 days,” she recounted, celebrating their collaborative spirit in creating a film that is both entertaining and culturally significant.

The director, Shankman, praised his cast for their fortitude and artistry under challenging circumstances, particularly highlighting the additional effort required to maintain their glamorous drag personas on screen. “To watch them transform and just so elegantly and effortlessly glide into this… It’s extraordinary,” he remarked, acknowledging the broader societal challenges faced by the drag community today.

*Stop! That! Train!* is set to hit theatres on June 12, promising a fun-filled cinematic experience that not only entertains but also champions drag culture and representation. As excitement builds, the film is positioned to become a seminal work within the ever-evolving landscape of queer cinema.