In a delightful fusion of humor and disaster, "Stop! That! Train!" emerges as a cinematic offering that playfully reinterprets the classic disaster movie genre. Directed by Adam Shankman, this film, framed as a "true story," features a star-studded cast from the "RuPaul's Drag Race" universe, with RuPaul Charles himself in a pivotal role as the President of the United States. The narrative unfolds with two courageous stewardesses at its core, tasked with preventing a train from colliding with an unprecedented weather phenomenon. The movie skillfully navigates comedic territory, delivering a lighthearted yet engaging experience that simultaneously entertains and parodies.
The premise of "Stop! That! Train!" centers on Tess (Ginger Minj) and DeeDee (Jujubee), two airline attendants from the now-defunct Stank Rail. Their aspirations for adventure seem dashed until a twist of fate lands them roles on the luxurious Glamazonian Express. Here, they encounter the formidable Amber (Brooke Lynn Hytes) and her entourage, along with the charming co-conductor, Cal (Brian Jordan Alvarez). The narrative swiftly plunges into chaos when lead conductor Davenport (Chris Parnell) discovers a critical brake malfunction, coinciding with traffic controller Donna Dusk's (Rachel Bloom) alarming forecast of a "stormaganza."
As the impending catastrophe looms, President Judy Gagwell (RuPaul Charles), grappling with past trauma from her time in the U.S. Rail Force, becomes involved in the rescue efforts. With no other viable options, Tess and DeeDee are thrust into the heroic role of stopping the runaway train. Their mission is not only to prevent disaster but also to earn the respect of their skeptical colleagues and confront their own insecurities, which have long hindered their personal and professional growth, and even strained their enduring friendship. The film brilliantly uses these personal struggles to add depth to its otherwise boisterous plot.
Under the direction of Adam Shankman and penned by Christina Friel and Connor Wright, the script masterfully weaves together common coming-of-age and disaster movie clichés. The film's self-awareness ensures that its lack of originality becomes a strength, as the brisk pace and witty dialogue keep the audience thoroughly engaged. Tess and DeeDee's contrasting personalities—Minj's folksy enthusiasm balanced by Jujubee's innocent charm—create a compelling dynamic. The humor, while frequently referencing LGBTQ+ culture, is delivered with a subtle wink, making it accessible to a wide audience without sacrificing its sharp, incisive edge. This allows for a clever exploration of societal norms through a unique lens.
The film's strength lies in its ability to extract humor from conventional thriller dialogue, often repurposing it within an LGBTQ+ framework to hilarious effect. The rapid-fire jokes, delivered by a diverse ensemble cast, including memorable single-scene guest stars, ensure that there is something to amuse everyone. Sarah Michelle Gellar's recurring gag as an unrecognized celebrity perfectly encapsulates the film's irreverent spirit, demonstrating a readiness to poke fun at established norms. This willingness to subvert expectations and embrace playful mockery is a hallmark of the film's comedic approach.
Although terms like "stormaganza" might evoke comparisons to B-movies such as "Birdemic" and "Sharknado," the extensive cast and their enthusiastic performances are more reminiscent of the grand disaster films of the 1970s. Each supporting actor, including Jesse Tyler Ferguson and Natasha Leggero, delivers their lines with genuine flair, even when their roles are limited. Shankman's directorial hand maintains a professional efficiency, orchestrating the chaotic events with skill. However, it is RuPaul, embodying President Judy Gagwell with a blend of confident swagger and exaggerated melodrama, who truly sets the film's vibrant and audacious tone. Her performance is central to the movie's success, guiding the audience through its humorous twists and turns.
Ultimately, while fans of "Drag Race" will undoubtedly appreciate the nuanced performances and inside jokes that reflect the show's lore, Shankman's film is designed to be broadly appealing. Its accessible humor and surprisingly endearing narrative strike a delicate balance, offering both specific fan service and an open invitation for a wider audience to join in the delightful chaos. "Stop! That! Train!" achieves a remarkable feat by delivering a burlesque-style spoof with the 'realness' that other parodies often strive for, successfully entertaining and engaging viewers from all walks of life.
