John Waters Defends Matthew Lillard Ahead of 'Serial Mom' Screening

The filmmaker will be honored by Frameline at the Castro Theatre with a screening and live commentary.

Mar. 12, 2026 at 7:19pm

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Legendary filmmaker John Waters will be honored by Frameline, the nation's premier LGBTQ media arts nonprofit, at the Castro Theatre in San Francisco on March 17. The event will feature a screening of Waters' 1994 film 'Serial Mom' starring Kathleen Turner, with Waters providing live commentary. Waters discussed his memories of the Castro Theatre, the cultural resonance of 'Serial Mom,' and defended actor Matthew Lillard after recent critical comments from director Quentin Tarantino.

Why it matters

John Waters is a pioneering figure in queer cinema and counterculture, and his films have had a lasting impact. The 'Serial Mom' screening at the Castro Theatre, a historic LGBTQ venue, celebrates Waters' contributions to the community. The defense of Matthew Lillard also highlights the importance of supporting actors, even when facing criticism from other industry figures.

The details

Waters first came to San Francisco in 1970 and became a counterculture hit, screening his films like 'Mondo Trasho' and 'Multiple Maniacs' with the drag troupe the Cockettes. He now spends part of the year in his Nob Hill apartment. 'Serial Mom,' released in 1994, is considered one of Waters' best films, with Kathleen Turner delivering a standout performance as a suburban wife and mother who resorts to homicide. Waters will provide live commentary during the Castro Theatre screening, and will be joined on stage by longtime friend and San Francisco drag legend Peaches Christ for a conversation.

  • John Waters first came to San Francisco in 1970.
  • 'Serial Mom' was released in 1994.
  • The Frameline Award presentation and 'Serial Mom' screening will take place on March 17, 2026.

The players

John Waters

An American filmmaker, writer, actor, and artist who rose to fame in the early 1970s for his transgressive cult films.

Kathleen Turner

An American actress who starred as the lead role of Beverly Sutphin in Waters' 1994 film 'Serial Mom'.

Matthew Lillard

An American actor who had a breakout role in 'Serial Mom' and has recently faced criticism from director Quentin Tarantino.

Peaches Christ

A San Francisco-based drag performer and longtime friend of John Waters who will present him with the Frameline Award.

Quentin Tarantino

An American filmmaker who has previously expressed admiration for John Waters' work but recently made derogatory remarks about actor Matthew Lillard.

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What they’re saying

“San Francisco was one of the first places my films ever caught on outside of Baltimore.”

— John Waters, Filmmaker (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Kathleen Turner said (Hearst) did that stunt better than any stunt person. If you watch her get hit in the face, it's flawless.”

— John Waters, Filmmaker (San Francisco Chronicle)

“What was Quentin (Tarantino) thinking about saying bad s— about him? Quentin interviewed me onstage for 'Serial Mom' and loved it. I don't know what that's all about, (Matthew) is really a great actor.”

— John Waters, Filmmaker (San Francisco Chronicle)

“It was cruel. I had Matthew on my podcast and he broke down and cried a lot. He was really vulnerable around me, complimenting him on his performance in 'SLC Punk.' When I saw the Quentin Tarantino thing I thought it's just mean, especially to a guy who's so sweet!”

— Peaches Christ, Drag Performer (San Francisco Chronicle)

What’s next

The Frameline Award presentation and 'Serial Mom' screening at the Castro Theatre will take place on March 17, 2026.

The takeaway

John Waters' longstanding connection to San Francisco and the LGBTQ community is celebrated through this event, which also highlights the importance of supporting actors and filmmakers, even in the face of criticism from industry peers. The screening of 'Serial Mom' showcases Waters' unique brand of transgressive humor and social commentary that has resonated with audiences for decades.