The same high street shops everywhere, TV talent shows clogging the airwaves – ever feel the world’s surrendered to crass commercial conformity? Artist and cultural provocateur Andrew Logan certainly does, and that’s why his proudest creation The Alternative Miss World Show continues to fly the flag for individualism, eccentricity and sewing on your own sequins. It’s an eye-popping event he’s been holding on and off since the early 1970s – previous competitors include David Bowie, Leigh Bowery and Derek Jarman – and filmmaker Jes Benstock’s affectionate, riotously entertaining documentary follows his progress as he tries to get the 2009 event up and running.

In the meantime, Benstock peeks back at previous decades of triumph, disaster and polymorphous perversity, pops in interviews from the likes of Brian Eno and Ruby Wax, and presents Logan as a cheerily unflappable host touchingly dedicated to upholding the true meaning of ‘alternative’. Delicious animated graphics add to the fun of a movie that’s dotty, very British and surprisingly life-affirming. Enjoy! (Notes by Trevor Johnston.)

Panti and other familiar faces from the Alternative Miss Ireland family will introduce the 20.00 screening on December 16th and take part in a very special Q&A. Dressing up welcome!

EXCLUSIVELY AT IFI