In the captivating French Canadian drama "Once Upon a Time in the East" (1974), three unforgettable characters find their lives intertwining amidst dreams and challenges. A flamboyant transvestite is gearing up for a dazzling drag-queen beauty pageant, determined to embody the legendary Cleopatra. Meanwhile, one of the women, freshly fired from her waitressing job, is on a mission to reclaim her spot at the very nightclub hosting the extravagant event. Her friend, facing her own struggles, has just received an unexpected windfall: a million food stamps, a surreal twist that could change everything. As the pageant approaches, their stories converge in a whirlwind of ambition, identity, and resilience. Together, they navigate the vibrant yet challenging world of performance and self-discovery, all while grappling with societal expectations and personal dreams. "Once Upon a Time in the East" invites viewers on a poignant journey that celebrates the power of friendship and the pursuit of authenticity in a world filled with uncertainty. This film is a unique exploration of life, love, and the quest for acceptance in a dazzling yet often unforgiving landscape.