When examining gay culture, it’s crucial to realize there are people and parts of this chronicling that are lost forever.

This documentary shows that photos, notes and many other things made being ‘out’ literally impossible in New York in the mid-1900s. Drag culture especially was difficult to navigate.

For decades, laws, police and public attitudes kept 2SLGBTQIA+ culture at arms length, and many things we enjoy today would get you locked up back then.

To all the young gay men who adore dancing in their harnesses at Halifax’s beautiful Garrison Grounds during Pride, you have folks like these to thank for the privilege.

P.S. Burn This Letter Please follows the drag community using secret letters, hidden for six decades, and opens up a new history.

When drag was considered lewd, illegal conduct, these queens fought back and did what they could to be who they were. Now, these have the chance to tell their stories.

Frequently uplifting – but often heartbreaking – co-writers and directors Michael Seligman and Jennifer TIexiera put together a portrait of a time that wouldn’t get to be seen were it not for the letters, and that’s so important.

4/5 Stars