Several Toronto drag queens and dancers have created a video for Keala Settle’s “This Is Me,” the breakout track from The Greatest Showman soundtrack.
With spot-on staging, costumes, cinematography, and editing, the video – shot by James Forrester – is worthy of being on the big screen.
“I fell in love with the movie The Greatest Showman and when director Michael Gracey invited everyone to show their version of the song, I quickly jumped on the opportunity,” explained Sofonda Cox (aka Jonathan Cruz), one of Canada’s most famous drag performers.
“A passion project with an incredible cast of really talented friends/artists.”
The video made its debut on Facebook on Sunday and quickly earned rave reviews.
“This is stunning and even got me a little choked up,” commented Vince Ciarlo. “Now this is an example of a community coming together to make great art.”
Colin Persad called it “a masterpiece.” He added: “Such brilliant talent and stunning choreography bringing out the deeper meaning of the lyrics.”
“This Is Me,” written by Benj Pasek and Justin Paul, was named Best Original Song at the Golden Globes and has earned an Oscar nomination. Performed by Settle in the film, another version by Kesha was released in December.
The song resonates with many in the LGBT community. “I am who I'm meant to be / this is me / Look out 'cause here I come / And I'm marching on to the beat I drum / I'm not scared to be seen / I make no apologies, this is me.”
Check out the video below (click on HD for the best quality):