In Loving Memory of Jonathan Appel (1974 – 2010), Porn Star Vignettes is an effort to humanize sex industry workers–an effort that began with the series On the Couch with Lydia Lee in 2009.
Jonathan Appel and I, with the help of my husband Doug and producer Anthony Clementi, set out to make a documentary in 2010. Jonathan’s untimely death ended the project as we knew it. Revisiting the footage for these vignettes I realize that it is an incomplete picture. A full documentary must explore all sides to an industry and group of people, but I refused to voice through the film what I feel is an overly emphasized negativity around sex workers: sex abuse, anger issues, the idea of a “damaged” soul. I set out to show the lighter side and find some innocent, thoughtful and even sweet similarities between sex workers.
I stand by the idea that there are sweet qualities all sex workers share. You can kind find any number of stereotypical pieces on sex workers and I invite you to explore all voices and ideas about it, but I also implore you to consider the source when you come across people who say sex workers are damaged human beings, con artists and “mentally ill”. We project what is in ourselves. My projection is kind because I’m kind. What of the unkind person?
If you happen to have a problem with pornography, I hope this series helps you through information and understanding rather than shame and fear. Listen, love and learn; that is the only way to grow.
This series begins with the models shot in 2010 and will continue as long as I am able to haul my equipment around and/or bear it mentally and emotionally.
If you are inteerested in being featured for a segment, go to the Contact page and send me an email. I will return your inquiry as quickly as I can.
Warm Regards,
Lydia Lee
Photos
Bobbi Star Interview
Kayden Kross Interview
Sunny Leone & Daniel Weber Interview
Jane Hamilton Interview
Samantha Ryan Interview
On the Couch Series
