In loving memory of the incomparable country music legend, philanthropist, and global queer icon Dolly Parton, Melbourne Queer Film Festival presents a special memorial tribute screening of the 1982 musical classic The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas.

Dolly shines brighter than a bedazzled Nudie suit as Miss Mona Stravley, the warm-hearted and fiercely independent proprietor of the “Chicken Ranch”: a long-standing, beloved rural Texas brothel. Alongside her charm-heavy ally and lover, Sheriff Ed Earl Dodd (Burt Reynolds), Miss Mona runs a smooth operation built on respect and community goodwill. However, when a sensationalist television evangelist launches a puritanical media crusade to shut them down, Mona and her girls must stand their ground to protect their home and livelihood.

Featuring memorable songs penned by Dolly herself, including the soaring original release of “I Will Always Love You”. The film is a masterclass in feel-good camp, southern charm, and unapologetic joy.

Film rating: M film.

Event Details 

• Date: Sunday 06 September 2026. 
• Time:  1:10 pm start.  
• Location: Cinema Nova. 380 Lygon St, Carlton VIC 3053
• Cost: $13 – $28 (plus booking fee)