Hookers on Davie: A Documentary on Sex Workers in Vancouver

The Documentary Overview

“Hookers on Davie” is a documentary by Holly Dale and Janis Cole, released in 1984. The film profiles sex workers on Davie Street in Vancouver, Canada, including both cisgender and transgender individuals. It offers a rare, nonjudgmental look into their lives, capturing the culture of the area before a court injunction led to the removal of sex workers.

The Significance of the Film

The documentary is significant for its empathetic portrayal, providing a candid and personal insight into the experiences of those working on Davie Street. It highlights the complexity and variety of the sex work industry, offering a humanizing perspective that is both sensitive and realistic. Filmed after extensive research, “Hookers on Davie” is a landmark document of its time.

Historical Context and Accessibility

The film shows the street, once known as Canada’s prostitution capital, and the lives of those who worked there. The documentary’s historical context is crucial, as it documents a period before significant changes in the area. “Hookers on Davie” has been screened in various formats, including 4K UHD and Blu-ray, making it accessible to modern audiences. It remains a vital piece of social history, offering insights into the lives of sex workers and the broader cultural landscape of the time.

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