Parodying campy ’60s thrillers, Die Mommie Die is the story of washed-up diva Angela Arden (screenwriter Charles Busch, in drag), who is trapped in a loveless marriage to big time producer Sol Sussman (Phillip Baker Hall). While dealing with her fate as a has-been, Angela is blackmailed by her husband, who discovers her affair with handsome actor Tony Parker (Jason Priestley). These scenes crackle with the retro style of the 1960s, while Angela keeps flashing back to her golden days of the 1940s.

Soon after Sol’s suspicious death, Angela becomes the target of murder accusations from her two children, Edith (Natasha Lyonne) and Lance (Stark Sands). Angela sits on a piano and sings a happy jig to celebrate her husband’s death, fueling the children’s desire to catch her. The story unfolds as the children hatch a plan to expose their mother. Incest is used as a comedic element, with questionable kisses and dialogue between father and daughter.

The movie is not a grand success in the comedy department, but Die Mommie Die, directed by first-timer Mark Rucker, does have moments of humor and plenty of surprise twists. Writer/star Busch, the man behind Psycho Beach Party and the play ‘The Tale of the Allergist’s Wife,’ portrays the diva like only a man in drag can.

Lyonne, Priestley and veteran actor Hall also bring some shine to the movie’s marquee. Lyonne’s unusual demeanor brightens the role of slutty, vengeful Edith. Priestley disappoints, possibly because the role of bisexual actor/undercover agent is too much of a stretch for the former ‘90210’ star.

Despite a handful of talented actors, Die Mommie Die comes up lacking. While trying to parody 1960s thrillers, the story ultimately grows too dramatic for its own good.