There’s been a lot of buzz surrounding the documentary Hot Girls Wanted. It’s on Netflix, and it’s been in my queue for the last month because I’ve been meaning to watch it. The only reason I didn’t watch it right away is probably because of the negative emotions and feelings I have towards porn. I was against it because of the rape mentality that is sometimes associated with porn. So as someone who has been sexually abused, I was wary.
Despite my concerns, my curiosity got the best of me. Although there were definitely some triggers within the film, and you can’t really call a documentary about porn “tasteful,” Hot Girls Wanted did a good job of neither promoting or condemning porn. It’s actually very informative.
The film follows the story of a few amateur porn stars and how they gain recognition from Craigslist to movies. But it also shows their family life, how it affects their romantic relationships, and how they feel about themselves.
Most girls go into the porn business for the money. One girl stated that during her 7 months working in the amateur porn industry she made roughly $25,000. But when she quit, she only had $2,000 left. She said that this was because there are a lot of expenses that come up in the porn industry: Flights to go home and visit family, shopping (specifically for lingerie), and beauty products to name a few. Pornstars live an expensive yet not so glamorous life.
Most girls in the film quit well within a few years. Some girls chose to stay, even though they are humiliated and hate some of the things they are forced to do. One girl described how absolutely degrading, horrible and disgusting it could be. Another girl noted that she couldn’t have sex outside of porn because of the nature of the job and the way it made her feel. And one girl’s boyfriend said how his whole view of porn changed because he had a girlfriend in the industry. He couldn’t watch it anymore without feeling sick.
“That’s someone’s girlfriend, or daughter, or sister.”
Lately there have been multiple books and films coming out showing the “dark” side of pornography. Websites like Fight The New Drug have been advocating against porn for years, and a film like this derives from an unbiased point of view, showing what it looks like from the girls’ side.
Although I’ve never had any impulse to enter the porn industry, the film shows how and why these young girls get involved in that world. There are family struggles that push them to leave home, sometimes an act of rebellion, the idea of fame, and the desire to be viewed as sexy. But usually the money is what drives them to pursue this career.
This film is educational and eye-opening. But I would suggest that viewers watch at their own risk. It can trigger bad memories and impulses for those with a history of abuse or addiction.
Now, what is your opinion of Hot Girls Wanted?
Featured image via Netflix life.
This was actually such an incredible film. I’m glad this topic was covered. Great job Rashida Jones!