It’s Dorothy!

Every year, the Hot Docs Festival transforms Toronto into the documentary capital of the world, but occasionally, a film arrives that feels less like a screening and more like a cultural intervention. This year, that film is Simone Estrin’s *It’s Dorothy!*. While the name might conjure images of ruby slippers and gingham, this isn't a retrospective of a children’s classic. Instead, it is a sharp, soulful, and necessary examination of how Dorothy Gale—and by extension, the incomparable Judy Garland—became the patron saint of the outsider.

More Than Just a Dream

What makes *It’s Dorothy!* stand out in the crowded Hot Docs lineup is its refusal to treat the 1939 *Wizard of Oz* as a static piece of nostalgia. Estrin digs into the subtext that has lived in the margins for decades. Why has this specific narrative become a touchstone for LGBTQ+ communities, women, and people of colour? The film posits that Dorothy’s journey is the ultimate queer narrative: a search for a chosen family, a defiance of oppressive structures, and the radical act of claiming one’s own power. By weaving together archival footage of Garland—whose own life was a tragic, beautiful mirror to the character she played—with commentary from cultural heavyweights like John Waters and Lena Waithe, the documentary bridges the gap between mid-century Hollywood and contemporary identity politics.

The Voices Behind the Icon

One of the most compelling aspects of this documentary is its roster of interviewees. You have the legendary John Waters, whose camp sensibilities are practically built on the foundation of Garland’s aesthetic, sitting alongside the sharp, modern perspectives of Margaret Cho and Ashanti. It’s a fascinating juxtaposition. Watching these voices dissect the "friend of Dorothy" phenomenon provides a masterclass in cultural history, reminding us that icons aren't just born—they are adopted by the communities that need them most. The film doesn't shy away from the darker realities of Garland’s life, either, ensuring that the "dazzling" aspects of the documentary are grounded in the very real, very human cost of stardom.

The Venue: TIFF Lightbox

There is no better place to experience this film than the TIFF Lightbox in the heart of the Entertainment District. As the home of the Toronto International Film Festival, the Lightbox is a temple to cinema. Its state-of-the-art projection and sound systems will ensure that the restored archival footage of the 1939 classic looks as vibrant as the day it was filmed. Located at the corner of King and John, the Lightbox is perfectly situated for a post-film debrief.

Getting There and Making a Night of It

If you’re heading to the Lightbox for a screening, you’re in the thick of one of Toronto’s busiest neighbourhoods. For a pre-film bite, skip the tourist traps and head a few blocks north to Queen Street West or stay local with a cocktail at the nearby Bar Hop on Peter Street, which boasts one of the best craft beer lists in the city. If you want something more substantial, PAI on Duncan Street offers some of the best Northern Thai food in the city—just be sure to book a reservation, as it fills up fast during festival season.

Good to Know

Hot Docs screenings are notorious for selling out, especially when they feature high-profile subjects like this. If you miss the initial screenings, keep an eye on the Hot Docs digital platform, as the festival often offers streaming options for select titles. Also, remember that the TIFF Lightbox can get chilly; bring a light layer even if it’s a warm spring day outside. Finally, don't rush out the door when the credits roll—Hot Docs screenings frequently feature Q&As with the filmmakers, and you won't want to miss the chance to hear Estrin discuss the process of deconstructing such a massive cultural myth.