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Review

Tipping the Velvet is a stunning tour-de-force lesbian romantic drama in grand BBC style with fabulous music, costumes, acting, language, story and yes -- sex. In fact, we'd have to call this our favorite movie with a lesbian theme to date. This is not a movie just for dykes -- everyone will enjoy this grand entertainment. Pop the disc in your machine, pull up a comfy easy chair, get your dog settled in and you'll be lost in queer London, circa 1900 for the next three hours.

Nan Astley (Stirling) is a sweet girl who shucks oysters in her parent's Whitstable oyster parlor. One night she accompanies her family and boyfriend, with whom she is not smitten to the vaudeville show. On stage she is entranced by the site of male impersonator Kitty Butler (Hawes). After weeks her stares come to Kitty's attention and she is summoned backstage. When Kitty asks her to become her dresser, she readily complies. Just a small touch of Kitty sends her reeling. Nan realizes almost immediately that what she wants is "wrong" by societal standards, but she's gotta have that woman! Addicted to music hall life, and with Kitty, Nan leaves her family's nest and follows her heart to London. There she finds heartbreak with Kitty and a shocking victorian lesbian underworld that must be seen to be believed.

Based on the novel by Sarah Waters and adapted by Andrew Davies (Bridget Jones's Diary), this powerful BBC drama is both a frank depiction of lesbianism and a witty and moving account of a young woman who will win your heart while searching for her own. Be prepared for plenty of female nudity, a large brown leather stitched strap-on dildo, a victorian lesbian party, scenes of male impersonation, amazing music hall scenes, lush costumes, a superb score and an addictive story.

Scott Cranin