reg-57988 Review of Circus of Books

Circus of Books (2019)

Interesting documentary of a couple adapting to a strange new life

[7/10 · 25 April 2020]

This documentary is both a family history and a history of gay culture and society in the USA. The couple in this story are both looking for a break, when they answer an advertisement to distribute Hustler magazine. This leads to them taking over a bookstore, which they soon discover is also a gay and sexual aid store. Rather than be discouraged, they roll up their sleeves and dive into the business, running it successfully and soon becoming large players in gay movie distribution. There are moments both serious and humorous, including the mother's challenge to accept her own son's sexuality, which is a bit ironic considering what her business is. An easy going watch with a lot of heart.