Filmmaker Katherine Linton weaves two stories together in an inspirational rock-and-roll/high school documentary. Producer Chris Slusarenko is trying to assemble performers for a Hedwig and the Angry Inch tribute album,“ Wig in a Box,” to benefit the Harvey Milk High School in New York City, a school for gay, bisexual and transgender teens. Working with Hedwig creators John Cameron Mitchell and Stephan Trask, Chris pursues a variety of musicians; the three producers are also fans who get to meet some of their heroes while working on this project, including Jonathon Richman and Yoko Ono. The Breeders leave an acoustic version of“ Wicked Little Town” on John’s answering machine.

The film also profiles students who talk about previous school experiences and what their time at Harvey Milk has been like. Through interviews and video diaries we meet four seniors: Angel, a pre-op MTF, faces escalating tension at home as she refuses to act and dress like a boy; Ralphy and Mey are trying to figure out how school, life and love (and in Mey’s case, a modeling career) all fit together; Tenaja chose at age 17 to leave her oppressively religious family rather than hide her true self.

Seeing the album come together is inspiring, but it’s the resilience and strength of the students that will stay with you. Whether you’re a hardcore Hedwig head or have yet to see the rock musical, this documentary will move your feet and soul.

—PHILIP WALKER