Movies I Watch When I Need Inspiration

Lily O Lei here, reporting from my couch with a big bowl of popcorn and a glass (ok fine, a bottle) of wine. I am not just taking some “ME” time, I am working on new act inspiration. One of my favorite ways to get inspired is to watch movies. I find costume, music, themes, choreography, all kinds of inspiration from movies. I thought it might be fun to share my top 10 movies that I enjoy watching and always find something new or exciting that gets the creative juices going. Turn the lights down, get comfy and let’s start our movie marathon.

I really enjoy this documentary and have watched it many, many times. It gives you a great behind the scenes look at being a burlesque performer. Great performance clips too.

Tank Girl is a cult classic and one of my favorite Lori Petty movies. AWESOME costume inspiration and an amazing soundtrack to boot. Portishead, Bjork, a Let’s Do It cover by Joan Jett, SO GOOD!!!!

Leonard DiCaprio AND Claire Danes, costumes and another AMAZING soundtrack. A classic and forever in my top 10 favorite movies of all time.

Need hair, make up, costume or even a new ACT inspiration, look right here. A classic movie sure to inspire the inner showgirl in us all.

Rita Hayworth in evening gowns and gloves and that’s just one scene. Hair flips and classic styles to steal every 30 seconds. Plus the movie itself is excellent.

You can never have to many musicals and Gene Kelly is the cherry on top.

Marilyn Monroe & Jane Russell, need I say more, I think not.

Another top ten favorite. The way Tim Burton creates his own world with his distinct style and use of shapes & colors is so iconic.

Morticia Addams everyday drag is LENGDARY! That snatched waist and pale skin, to die for.

Amazing soundtrack, check. Costumes and Choreography, check. Dressing room in an elephant, check. Corsets, swings, Can Can girls, check & check.

I hope you enjoy these movies as much as I do. Let me know the movies you watch.

XOXO – Lily O Lei