Betty Dodson with Carlin Ross

Better Orgasms. Better World.

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It may surprise you to know that even though I am on a quest to find more beautiful and humane examples of human sexuality within the media, when it comes to adult films I do considerably less watching than I do researching films and filmmakers.

I recommend that if you are interested in viewing adult films, but have issues with the majority of pornographic films on the market, than you assess what it is you don't like and what it is you would like to see instead.

For instance, two of the major issues I have with mainstream pornography are the lack of aesthetic and the unwillingness to exercise restraint. I would like to see a less perverse take on sexual imagery and attention to it's natural beauty, while not assaulting the audience with shots aimed get us off quickly and with little engagement or investment in the scene.

I've mentioned Erika Lust's short film Handcuffs before and I wanted to post it here to use as an example of the quality of work that I am looking for. Right away you can see the attention to detail and beauty far surpasses most adult films. It's also important to take note of the cinematic restraint. Clearly the woman is fellating the man, but instead of the obvious and uninventive straight shot showing the fellatio, the encounter is kept erotic by conveying sensual pleasures through the faces of the actors.

The feeling of release from the man, the sense of control from the woman, and the tentative excitement of the voyeur all contribute to the eroticism of this piece. It's also important to note how you feel after you watch this film. If you are anything like me, you will find that by making the actors subjective and giving the audience more credit by not going for the obvious, a respectful and organic arousal occurs that doesn't feel forced or contrived.

Enjoy this sensual short film.