What is it about Holly that makes her a worthy subject for a non-fiction film?
Holly was one of our first trans icons. That intro verse in “Walk on the Wild Side” — Holly came from Miami F-L-A, hitch hiked her way across the U-S-A … — was certainly my first introduction to trans identity, and maybe to outsider culture in general. I don’t think I discovered Warhol, and certainly not her work in films like Trash and Women in Revolt, until much later. And, of course, she was at the Stonewall for the riots. Oddly, if you’ve read her memoir, Low Life in High Heels, these are in some ways the least interesting parts of her story. Holly really carved out an identity in the underground in a way that hadn’t been done before. She was both glamorous and a shit-kicker. I don’t think she’s ever given a thought to what other people think about her, she’s just living her life. She is an artist, a hustler, and someone who utterly without pretension. In an era when even fine artists are creating lifestyle brands, Holly stands out as someone who’s only interest is being true to herself. It’s tremendously inspiring.
What are some of your favorite Holly stories?
Oh, there are so many. But I think what sums up Holly best is her relationship with champagne. She hates it. The carbonation make her burp, so no matter where we are, if someone hands her a glass she’ll just jam her fingers in it and swirls them around to get out all the bubbles. I can’t think of a better metaphor for popping high culture pretensions.
stranded
People always remember Candy Darling but never Holly Woodlawn. She is just as mesmerizing.
Tobi
@stranded: I imagine that’s because Candy really did “pass”, she was utterly believable, whereas Holly deliberately played herself up as a parody.
Cam
She brought visibility early on.
Waiting for the Trans community to also step up on this one.
Or will they find some reason to attack Holly for whatever invented reason?
Bisexual-Transwoman
Holly was not trans, she is/was a drag queen. Candy Darling was actually trans though.
Cam
@Bisexual-Transwoman:
Funny then that she refers to herself as trans, has breasts etc… but if she doesn’t fit the current mold, I guess it’s easier to deny her than to step up.
Kangol
Bless her, and I plan to help. She was a true pioneer.
Sansacro
@stranded: Guess it depends on who you talk to. I was first aware of Holly. Candy came a bit after I started watching all the “Warhol” films (Morrissey is a prick.) Guess many also know Candy because of “Candy Says” by Lou Reed. But Holly was/is a great and generous soul. Will definitely donate to her fund.
He BGB
I met Holly during the intermission of a play in WH,years ago. We didn’t have a pen for an autograph so she gave me her lipstick print. I put it in the book I have she wrote LowLife….. I have a book written by Candy Darling and a book about Jackie Curtis. Holly is the last of the trio.
Daggerman
..Holly Woodlawn is definitely one of my favorite human beings because firstly I read her outrageous, and funny autobiography, and second, really feel she’s a special person…