Female Trouble: A Cult Classic by John Waters

Female Trouble (1974) is John Waters’ bold and boundary-pushing dark comedy that cemented his reputation as the king of trash cinema. Starring the legendary Divine as Dawn Davenport, a rebellious high schooler turned criminal, the film follows her outrageous journey after running away from home. Her chaotic life is filled with crime, bizarre relationships, and an obsession with fame, all captured in Waters’ signature irreverent style. Alongside Divine, the film features a cast of Waters’ regulars, including David Lochary, Mink Stole, Mary Vivian Pearce, and Edith Massey, whose eccentric performances make this film an unforgettable cult classic.

Made immediately after the notorious Pink Flamingos, Female Trouble pushed the envelope further, both in its subject matter and its low-budget, DIY approach. Waters acted as director, cinematographer, and co-editor, shaping the film into a riotous blend of crime, satire, and absurdity. The film’s “crime is beauty” theme, inspired by Waters’ prison visits to Manson Family member Charles “Tex” Watson, challenges conventional ideas of beauty and morality. Divine’s portrayal of Dawn is both comedic and tragic, and her transformation into a grotesque, fame-obsessed criminal is as provocative as it is hilarious. The film’s dark humor and outlandish scenarios shocked audiences at the time, but its unapologetic celebration of the weird and the fringe has ensured its lasting legacy.

Celebrating its 50th anniversary, Female Trouble remains a cornerstone of queer cinema and an essential part of John Waters’ filmography. Its mix of camp, rebellion, and biting social commentary continues to resonate with fans who appreciate its fearless approach to storytelling. With its unforgettable characters, outrageous plot twists, and Divine’s iconic performance, Female Trouble stands as a testament to Waters’ talent for turning the grotesque and unconventional into an art form.