Whore
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Director: Ken Russell
Actors: Theresa Russell, Benjamin Mouton, Antonio Fargas
PlotA candid tale reveals the life of a woman navigating the harsh realities of her profession on the streets of Los Angeles. She shares her personal narrations directly with the audience, painting vivid pictures of her challenging encounters. As she strolls along neon-lit streets, she revisits stories from her life, exploring how she ended up in her line of work. Her witty, sharp, and often heartbreaking commentary provides an intimate look into her struggles and dreams. Through flashbacks, she offers insight into her past, revealing decisions driven by desperate circumstances and longing for survival.
Key figures emerge in her stories: a domineering pimp whose control and manipulation highlight the darker side of her existence, and clients who range from degrading to disturbingly bizarre. Each story adds layers to her complex character, revealing both vulnerability and resilience. The tone oscillates between dark humor and poignant reality, while she confronts societal judgments and personal challenges. Throughout, she grapples with the desire for freedom against the pressures that bind her to this life. Her narrative becomes a powerful exploration of human dignity amid adversity, capturing the essence of a woman who perseveres amid harsh truths and seeks a glimmer of hope in her chaotic world.
Writers: David Hines, Ken Russell, Deborah Dalton
Release Date: 18 Oct 1991
Runtime: 85 min
Rating: NC-17
Country: United States, United Kingdom
Language: English
Home Video Reviews
Whore divides viewers with its unfocused humor and campy satire; its Blu-ray release by Kino Cult caters to niche enthusiasts.
Read our review of Whore Blu-ray to find out more