Whore (1991)
Release Year: 1991
Nation: United States
Alternative Title: If You're Afraid to Say It... Just See It
Director: Ken Russell
Writer: David Hines, Deborah Dalton, Ken Russell
Production & Genre
Producer: Producer: Dan Ireland, Michael D. Pariser, Ronaldo Vasconcellos
Executive_Producer: Mark Amin
Companies: Trimark Pictures
Budget: N/A
Awards & Similar
Awards: N/A
Similar:
Keywords
Keywords: mistreatment, rape, sex work, sex worker, sexual arousal, stockings
Story
The melodrama 'Whore' (1991) directed by Ken Russell follows Liz, a sex worker plying her trade on the streets of Los Angeles. The narrative unfolds in a pseudo-documentary style, chronicling a day in Liz's life. Throughout the film, Liz recalls pivotal moments from her past that led her to this point. Initially married to an alcoholic man, she leaves him with their son and works as a waitress at a diner until she is introduced to prostitution by a client. After being raped by multiple men, she falls under the protection of Blake, who eventually becomes her pimp. Liz befriends fellow prostitute Katie and tries to escape Blake's control but faces repercussions for her defiance. She finds solace in her friendship with Rasta, a homeless man who supports her.
Summary
'Whore' (1991) is a Ken Russell film that challenges societal norms surrounding sex work by presenting a raw, unglamourized portrayal of the life of its protagonist Liz, played by Theresa Russell. Adapted from David Hines' play 'Bondage', the film serves as a response to the romanticized depictions of prostitution seen in films like 'Pretty Woman'. Set against the backdrop of Los Angeles' streets and featuring a pseudo-documentary style, 'Whore' explores themes of mistreatment, rape, and sexual exploitation faced by sex workers. The narrative also delves into Liz's personal history and her struggles with self-acceptance and agency within an oppressive system.
