“Music was the thing that saved me for sure.” The documentary starts with this statement from Lagoona Bloo as they sit in front of a mirror applying their makeup.

This statement sets the tone for this film by Austin Nunes, which is a music documentary that captures drag musician, Lagoona Bloo as they prepare for a a show. In the film, the musician whose real name is David Brumfield talks about a raw, heartfelt exploration of loss, triumph, and creative resilience.

This short documentary captures Lagoona Bloo in an intimate setting as they prepare for a show. In these moments, they open up about their life story, recounting painful experiences and joyful breakthroughs that have shaped their identity and artistry. The honesty with which Lagoona shares their journey captures moments of vulnerability that ground the film with some emotional authenticity.

One of the most striking segments is when Lagoona speaks about coming to terms with their sexuality. They recount the realization of being gay and how, as a young person, it felt like a recipe for disaster. They touch on the heart-wrenching reality of hiding their truth due to societal and familial pressures, particularly their mother’s initial reaction. Forced to deny their identity for years, it wasn’t until they were older that they finally embraced who they were and came out.

The documentary delves into Lagoona’s relationship with their parents, offering a nuanced look at how these bonds have influenced their life and creative perspective. Lagoona credits their mother for teaching them everything they know about femininity.

Austin Nunes masterfully blends scenes of Lagoona in their dressing room with archival family footage and clips of their stage performances. These elements work together to paint a vivid picture of a person who has faced adversity head-on, channelling pain and joy into their art. Watching Lagoona transform through their makeup and storytelling, we see not only a drag musician but also a resilient human being showing that they have control over their narrative.

What makes Into the Bloo stand out is its universal relatability. At its core, the film is about self-discovery and pursuing one’s dreams despite the odds. This is certainly a story that resonates far beyond the LGBTQ+ community. Whether you’re grappling with identity, seeking validation, or overcoming challenges, Lagoona’s journey is a testament to perseverance and the power of authenticity.

While ‘Into the Bloo’ is a brief documentary, it leaves a lasting impression. It showcases Lagoona Bloo’s undeniable talent, passion, and heart. This isn’t just a music documentary, it feels like a celebration of resilience and the transformative power of art.

Rating: 3/5 stars