Taylor Mac's 24-Decade History of Popular Music is not actually a movie but a live stage performance that has been adapted into a concert film. The show originally premiered in 2016 and has been performed in parts all around the world, but this film captures a special 24-hour performance of the entire piece.
Throughout the show, Mac performs 246 iconic songs from American history, covering the years 1776-2016. But this is not just a straightforward musical revue – Mac's performance is a commentary on the social and political history of the United States, filtered through their own unique lens as a queer performer.
The show is divided into decades, with each segment featuring different costumes and set design elements that mirror the era being covered. Mac is joined by a diverse array of musicians and performers who help bring the songs to life, including famous guest stars like Mandy Patinkin and Martha Plimpton.
In addition to the music, the show features spoken word segments, dance numbers, and even audience participation. Mac is unafraid to tackle controversial topics like race, gender, and sexuality head-on, making for a cathartic and empowering experience for all involved.
The concert film captures the energy and excitement of this monumental performance, bringing Mac's bold artistic vision to a wider audience. It's a celebration of queer culture and American history unlike anything else out there, and not to be missed.