International Sex Workers Day Watchlist: 38 Films Exploring Sex Work On Screen
These stories examine pornography, stripping, escorting and survival sex work through lenses ranging from fantasy and glamour to violence, loneliness and reinvention
By: The Lace Ledger Staff
In honour of International Sex Workers Day (June 2), this watchlist explores the many ways sex work has been portrayed across film and television; from glamour and fantasy to survival, exploitation, performance and economic reality. According to the International Union of Sex Workers, there are 52 million sex workers globally; 41.6 million of which are female. Though, researchers note the true number is likely far higher due to stigma, criminalization and underreporting.
These stories do not present one singular experience. Instead, they reveal how deeply conversations surrounding labour, gender, intimacy, class and power have always been intertwined with the people working at the centre of them.
Feathers, Fringe & Film: 13 Films to Celebrate National Burlesque Day
Sure to make you shiver with antici... pation
By: The Lace Ledger Staff
Somewhere between the first flicker of stage light and the final reveal, burlesque finds its rhythm.
A feather catches the air. A glove slips, slowly. A room full of people leans forward at the the edge of their seat.
This is the art of the tease. Not rushed. Every movement considered.
Film has always been drawn to this world for good reason. The costumes alone deserve their own billing.
This watchlist moves through that spectrum, from classic showgirls to nightclub camp to iconic performances that win the hearts of new generations with every passing year.
Consider this your invitation to sit front row, the show is about to begin.