How to Fail as a PopstarThe story of Vivek, a queer brown boy from Edmonton as he tries (and fails) to achieve pop stardom, told from the perspective of the now 40-something trans femme artist that boy became.
DirectorsVivek Shraya, Vanessa Matsui
WriterVivek Shraya
The Popstar
Oct 13, 2023
In 1997 Edmonton, 15-year-old Vivek has never quite felt like he fit in but hearing a pop song leads to discovering his dream…and his voice.
The Judge
Oct 13, 2023
Like all pop icons, Vivek’s journey to superstardom starts at the mall!
The Producer
Oct 13, 2023
Vivek’s dream of pop stardom comes with a hefty price and a struggle to articulate his vision while working with a hotshot producer.
The Call
Oct 13, 2023
Vivek’s debut album gets him his ticket out of Edmonton! But first he needs to find a way to tell his mom he’s moving to Toronto.
The Manager
Oct 13, 2023
Are Vivek’s new manager’s industry know-how, connections, and guidance worth living with her mercurial mood swings and abusive behaviour?
The Sisters
Oct 13, 2023
Vivek takes control!
The Record Deal
Oct 13, 2023
After the Tegan and Sara tour, Vivek’s music career has accelerated to Paris and a French record label in 2006 – but do their plans align with Vivek’s dream?
The Failure
Oct 13, 2023
Her 40th birthday leads Vivek, now a successful author and creative writing teacher in Edmonton, to reflect on her failure as a popstar.
