Adam Shankman’s “Stop! That! Train!” Is His First ‘Full-Frontally Queer’ Film After Decades as an Out Gay Director (Exclusive)

**Adam Shankman’s Bold Step Into LGBTQ+ Cinema with ‘Stop! That! Train!’**

Adam Shankman, an acclaimed director and choreographer known for his work with prominent figures such as Janet Jackson and Whitney Houston, embarks on a groundbreaking project with his latest film, *Stop! That! Train!*. Set for release in theatres on June 12, just in time for Pride Month, this film marks Shankman’s first foray into a project that is unambiguously queer at its core, featuring an ensemble cast predominantly made up of LGBTQ+ actors.

The film stars RuPaul alongside a beloved roster of alumni from the popular *RuPaul’s Drag Race*, including Ginger Minj, Jujubee, and Brooke Lynn Hytes. Shankman describes this disaster comedy as a celebration of humour that is “full-frontally queer,” showcasing a unique blend of slapstick and absurdity that he aims to deliver in a family-friendly manner, albeit with an irreverent twist.

Throughout his career, Shankman has directed and produced a variety of notable films and musicals, such as the popular *Hairspray* (2007) and *The Wedding Planner* (2001). Despite his significant accomplishments, he reflects on the rarity of having fully realised LGBTQ+ stories in his previous works. “I frequently found myself as the only queer person in rooms full of filmmakers,” he admits, highlighting the challenges he faced in portraying queer characters authentically, as exemplified by his experience with *What Men Want*.

In *Stop! That! Train!*, Shankman embraces a more expansive embrace of LGBTQ+ representation, stating, “This is the first project where the characters are not just sub-characters, but are front and centre.” He expresses his excitement at being able to create a film that authentically represents the queer community without resorting to stereotypes or caricatures.

The script, crafted by Christina Friel and Connor Wright, possesses an innate subversiveness that Shankman believes reflects the essential nature of queer humour. He draws parallels between this film and classic comedic works by greats like Laurel and Hardy and Mel Brooks, suggesting that the absurdity of the film has universal appeal. “Humour can transcend boundaries, and I’m thrilled to bring this type of comedy back into the mainstream,” he says.

As Shankman delves deeper into the creative process behind *Stop! That! Train!*, he emphasises the importance of allowing the LGBTQ+ community to find joy in self-deprecation and comedic expression. “There are times when it feels like we are living in one of the least liberal periods in modern history, and through comedy, we can dismantle some of the barriers created by ignorance,” he asserts.

With a fresh perspective on diversity within the film industry, Shankman hopes that *Stop! That! Train!* serves as a catalyst for further projects that feature queer voices and narratives. He recognises the positive impact that visibility and representation can have, particularly in a time when many LGBTQ+ individuals are grappling with increasing societal challenges.

As the premiere of *Stop! That! Train!* approaches, excitement builds not only for the film itself but for what it represents within the broader cinematic landscape. It is a film that seeks to celebrate and elevate queer artistry, humour, and community just as Pride Month invades theatres. The film aims to remind audiences of the power of laughter and reminds us of the strength that can be found in embracing one’s identity.

Shankman is there by design, excited about the film’s potential to resonate with audiences: “I can’t wait for people to experience this joyous ride,” he says, confident that *Stop! That! Train!* will provide a delightful blend of laughter, heart, and queer representation that will leave a lasting impression this Pride Month.