Watching Lesbian Porn

2001
10.0'
,
,
CA
Director: 
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  • GIV
Synopsis

In this ten minute video monologue, the artist argues that feminism is the ultimate tool for lesbian foreplay. McLeod demonstrates how feminist texts from Judith Butler, Luce Irigaray, Laura Mulvey, bell hooks, and Andrea Dworkin can be read in order to stimulate one’s partner. At the same time, behind her, two “porn star lesbians” are having sex in a 1970s style bedroom set. To illustrate the absurdity of stereotypical lesbian sex in straight porn, the two actresses offer over-the-top performances accentuated by the use of huge dildos, wear sexy lingerie, bear heavy make-up and slip on scuba gears. Throughout the whole video, however, McLeod’s body is positioned as to cover their genitals. This contrast between concealment and visibility creates a tension between critical feminist theory and visual stimulation and McLeod becomes the feminist mediator between the two.  

Jackie Gallant, of Lesbians on Ecstasy, provides the perfect 1970s’ porn-inspired soundtrack.