by Sara Lapsley

“I am a Porn Star” by director Charlie David is a delightful foray into the world of gay porn—come prepared to see more handsome, naked men than you ever thought possible. A somewhat dry narration leads us through the evolution of man-to-man porn from silent films, to pin-up magazines, to the internet behemoth it is today. We are soon introduced to a cast of wonderful characters who share their unique take on their porn careers and sexuality.

The adorable Colby Jansen (pictured above), is a former marine and defense contractor who discovered he would rather make pornography than war. He is happily married to transsexual porn star Gia Darling, and wins us over with a refreshingly simple perspective on life and his “pansexual” identity.

One almost feels sorry for the vain Rocco Reed, a handsome model type, who hopes to break into mainstream acting and dreams of opening a high-end gym with his girlfriend

Johnny Rapid, nondescript and plagued with acne,  is transformed into a charismatic, “slutty little bottom” when the cameras start rolling. He is most likely to get an erection looking at pictures of expensive cars, and puts the money he earns toward raising his two toddlers.

Canadian born Brent Everett is the star of the show–a happily married gay man known for his big lips and prodigious appendage. His supportive, swinging Mom and Dad are the first parents to ever attend a porn industry award ceremony.

“I am a Porn Star” likely whitewashes the gay porn industry. The street drugs, steroids, and Viagra are banished from view. All is glossy, pretty, and happy in this film as the money rolls in…The seemingly benign nature of gay porn leaves one feeling unconflicted, unlike straight porn, which evokes discomfort when the subtext of exploitation makes itself felt.

At the end of the day, despite being amusing and sexy, the film lacks a clear focus. There is not enough new information or complex human stories to make it a work of lasting value. Ultimately, it reflects it’s own subject—glossy, sensational, arousing, but over all too quickly, and possibly meaningless. Still, very much worth viewing!

Lots of great films still to come Sunday, Monday, and Tuesday at the Queer Film Festival. Check it out at: https://www.queerfilmfestival.ca/viewshowtime.php?stid=655