Myra Breckinridge

1970 • Comedy, Drama • R

Myron Breckinridge flies to Europe to get a sex-change operation and is transformed into the beautiful Myra. She travels to Hollywood, meets up with her rich Uncle Buck and, claiming to be Myron's widow, demands money. Instead, Buck gives Myra a job in his acting school. There, Myra meets aspiring actor Rusty and his girlfriend, Mary Ann. With Myra as catalyst, the trio begin to outrageously expand their sexual horizons.

Runtime: 1h 34m

Delve into the provocative world of Myra Breckinridge through Gore Vidal's original novel, which explores the themes of gender identity and societal norms with incisive wit and unparalleled depth. Vidal's masterful storytelling and sharp, satirical prose offer a literary experience that is both thought-provoking and entertaining, far surpassing the movie adaptation. The novel presents a nuanced exploration of its characters, providing rich backstories and motivations that the film struggles to capture. Readers are invited to explore the intricacies of Myra's identity and the cultural implications of her transformation, elements that are oversimplified in the cinematic rendition. Gore Vidal's work provides a critical lens through which to view the American dream, challenging readers to question preconceived notions and embrace the complexity of the human experience. Myra Breckinridge, in its original form, is a literary gem that transcends the superficiality of its film counterpart.