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Sex Work

Ellen E Jones and Mark Kermode trace the way that sex workers have been shown from the earliest days of film to the present, from Shanghai Express and Klute to Pretty Woman.

This year sees the 35th anniversary of Pretty Woman - one of the most beloved and successful romcoms ever. It tells the Cinderella story of an escort and the millionaire she meets. Fast forward to Anora -  Sean Baker’s Oscar winning tale of an exotic dancer whose whirlwind romance with a Russian billionaire’s son turns bad, fast.

Ellen E Jones and Mark Kermode trace the way that sex workers have been seen and shown from the earliest days of film to the present, from Shanghai Express to Klute and Midnight Cowboy to American Gigolo.

Producer: Jane Long
A Prospect Street production for ÃÛÑ¿´«Ã½ Radio 4

Release date:

42 minutes

On radio

Fri 2 May 2025 19:15

Broadcasts

  • Fri 2 May 2025 19:15
  • Tue 6 May 2025 11:00

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