But I'm A Cheerleader, 1999 (© Lionsgate)
But I'm a Cheerleader
Because I'm a girl
USA 1999
Director: Jamie Babbit
35mm | Original version with German subtitles
“I imagine it gets uncomfortable, sitting that long with a stick up your ass.”
Megan Bloomfield lives the American high school dream: she's a cheerleader, popular, dating the football star, and goes to church on Sundays...
But something doesn't fit into the picture, because she's a vegetarian, listens to Melissa Etheridge, and when she's making out with her boyfriend, her thoughts wander suspiciously often to her cheerleader teammates. For her parents and those around her, it's clear. Megan must be a lesbian. So she is sent to the “True Directions” rehabilitation camp. An institution for sexual reorientation that is exaggerated in its absurdity. Between dress codes, group therapy, and forced standardization, we accompany Megan on her journey full of new friendships, first love, and a journey to herself.
Although “But I'm a Cheerleader” received both poor reviews and limited distribution, the film, created by a queer director, is considered an iconic work of queer female representation and still has a loyal fan base today.
Supporting film: Märtini Brös – Dance Like it is O.K.
Director: Anna Karina Birkenstock
Germany 2002 | 4 min | SD Video | Original German version
Friday, July 10, 2026, 8:00 p.m.
Blue Salon, Room 012, HfG Karlsruhe
Free admission, donations welcome
