Butterflies on the Scaffold (1996): cast, story & where to watch

1996 · Film · ★ 3.3

Butterflies on the Scaffold poster

Released in 1996, Butterflies on the Scaffold is a documentary film directed by Margaret Gilpin, running about 75 minutes.

What it’s about. A rare view of what day-to-day life is like for the gay and drag community in modern Cuba. This award-winning documentary is the first since the 1959 revolution to examine the issues gays and transvestites face in the context of evolving attitudes towards homosexuality in Cuba, where people are judged first on what they achieve for their country. It is a highly unusual look at how a group of working class drag queens in a small town have become an integral part of their neighborhood.

How it landed. With an audience score of 3.3/10, Butterflies on the Scaffold has proved divisive with audiences.

Where to watch. Streaming options change often. See the full, country-by-country breakdown on our where to watch Butterflies on the Scaffold page.

If you liked it. Fans of Butterflies on the Scaffold tend to enjoy One Direction: This Is Us, Burn the Stage: The Movie, BTS World Tour: Love Yourself - Japan Edition and Senna.

Frequently asked

Where can I watch Butterflies on the Scaffold (1996)?
Streaming, rental and purchase options for Butterflies on the Scaffold change frequently. Check our where-to-watch page for the latest availability in your country.
Is Butterflies on the Scaffold worth watching?
Butterflies on the Scaffold holds an audience score of 3.3 out of 10, and is a strong pick if you enjoy documentary. Reactions are mixed, so it may depend on taste.
When was Butterflies on the Scaffold released?
Butterflies on the Scaffold was released in 1996, with a runtime of about 75 minutes.