Excellent commentary by the inimitable Petra Joy on the role of authenticity in porn, particularly feminist porn. I had previously read Siouxie Q’s account of her time shooting for Ms Naughty, and truly, I see both sides to the situation. My visceral reaction was of “hella divas” about the performers, but then I did have to consider how can performers give authentic performers when they can’t act out sex in the way that is most authentic to them? Something is missing in the most critical consent of all—between the performer and director.
Joy gets to the matter by revealing her work practices. Taking time to match up performers who are like-minded and have similar interests. Clearly outlining the shoot beforehand, ensuring everyone is onboard and excited by the planned scene. For everyone out there who just thinks porn will be “point, shoot, fuck,” well, here’s why porn it just isn’t. As we move to a greater understanding of sex and porn politics, better practices will come to light, better conditions will be set, and truly, better porn will be shot.
