Hunky Jesus is a feature-length documentary that tells the tail of the annual Easter Sunday tradition in San Francisco known as Hunky Jesus. This event is hosted by the renowned drag and activist group, the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence. The Sisters have been a respected institution on San Francisco queer scene for over four decades.
The Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence don unique nun-inspired habits and use elaborate, mask-like makeup. They participate in social justice activism. Over the decades the Sisters have ordained many individuals as saints – those in our community who have made significant contributions to the community, including notable figures like Harvey Milk, Derek Jarman, George Takei, and Rosie O’Donnell.
‘We are delighted to open the 40th BFI Flare: London LGBTQIA+ Film Festival with the world premiere of Hunky Jesus by Jennifer Kroots, a dazzling exploration of the legacy of the San Francisco chapter of the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence and their legendary annual Easter pageant, the Hunky Jesus and Foxy Mary Contest. With humour, joy, and irreverence, the Sisters challenge guilt, shame and exclusion while serving their communities and remind us all that spirituality can be fierce, fabulous, and fun.‘
– BFI Flare programmers Grace Barber-Plentie, Diana Cipriano, Zorian Clayton, Jaye Hudson, Darren Jones and Wema Mumma
BFI Dates for your diary
17 Feb 11:00: Programme revealed
23 Feb 12:00: Booking opens for BFI Patrons
24 Feb 12:00: Booking opens for BFI Members
26 Feb 12:00: Tickets on general sale
12 Mar 12:00: Extra tickets released for some screenings and events
18-29 Mar: The Festival takes place
