Miss America (2002): cast, story & where to watch
2002 · Film
Released in 2002, Miss America is a notable film directed by Lisa Ades, running about 102 minutes.
What it’s about. Tracking the country’s oldest beauty contest—from its inception in 1921 as a local seaside pageant to its heyday as one of the country’s most popular events—Miss America paints a vivid picture of an institution that has come to reveal much about a changing nation. The pageant is about commercialism and sexual politics, about big business and small towns. But beyond the symbolism lies a human story—at once moving, inspiring, infuriating, funny, and poignant. Combining rare archival footage, with a host of intimate interviews with distinguished commentators including Gloria Steinem, Margaret Cho, Isaac Mizrahi, former contestants and behind–the–scenes footage and photographs, the film reveals why some women took part in the fledgling event and why others briefly rejected it - how the pageant became a battle ground and a barometer for the changing position of women in society.
Who’s in it. Miss America stars Julia Álvarez as Self, Cherry Jones as Narrator, Sarah Banet-Weiser as Self and Margaret Cho as Self, among others.
Where to watch. Streaming options change often. See the full, country-by-country breakdown on our where to watch Miss America page.
Frequently asked
- Where can I watch Miss America (2002)?
- Streaming, rental and purchase options for Miss America change frequently. Check our where-to-watch page for the latest availability in your country.
- Who stars in Miss America?
- Miss America stars Julia Álvarez, Cherry Jones, Sarah Banet-Weiser, Margaret Cho and Kimberly Clarice Aiken.
- When was Miss America released?
- Miss America was released in 2002, with a runtime of about 102 minutes.