But I'm a Cheerleader

Megan is the epitome of a bright, all-American high school girl who loves cheering more than any romance. She has a steady boyfriend, yet she seems uneasy about kissing him and often gravitates toward her close cheerleading friends. When her parents fear she may secretly be gay, they decide to send her to a so called 'sexual redirection' program designed to teach teens to be straight. At the camp she encounters a cast of roommates and counselors who challenge her assumptions about identity, love, and what it means to fit in. The film uses sharp humor to explore conformity and desire. The movie treats Megan's feelings with humor and tenderness, letting viewers glimpse a moment of self discovery.

Directed by Jamie Babbit, this offbeat comedy arises from an original screenplay by Brian Peterson. The film blends camp humor with sharp social satire, anchored by a bold ensemble led by Natasha Lyonne and Clea DuVall. It played at festivals before finding a wider release, and it showcases a vivid, colorful look.

Box office performance was modest but solid for a small indie, grossing about $2.6 million worldwide against a budget of $1.2 million. The film resonated with audiences seeking queer themed humor and subversive romance, gaining a devoted following over time.

Over the years the film has become a cult favorite in queer cinema, admired for its playful take on identity and sexuality. It helped bring Natasha Lyonne and Clea DuVall to wider audiences while featuring RuPaul in a memorable role that still sparks talk among fans.

Critics praised its sharp wit and sincerity, noting how the story skews high school conformity while unpacking sexual identity with warmth. The performances, especially Lyonne and DuVall, provide genuine emotion beneath the satire and help keep the film from feeling merely jokey, leaving a lasting impression on viewers.