Top 10 Drama Films About Prostitution

Description: This iconic film tells the story of Vivian Ward, a prostitute who is hired by a wealthy businessman, Edward Lewis, to be his escort for several business and social events. It's a classic tale of opposites attracting, with a touch of fairy-tale romance, making it a unique entry in this list.

Fact: Julia Roberts was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Actress for her role as Vivian. The film was initially conceived as a much darker drama before being rewritten as a romantic comedy.

Description: This film follows Ben Sanderson, an alcoholic screenwriter, who moves to Las Vegas to drink himself to death. There, he meets Sera, a prostitute, and they form a bond. The movie is a raw, unflinching look at addiction and the search for human connection.

Fact: Nicolas Cage won the Academy Award for Best Actor for his portrayal of Ben Sanderson. The film was adapted from a semi-autobiographical novel by John O'Brien, who committed suicide shortly after selling the rights to the book.

Description: Based on the true story of Aileen Wuornos, this film stars Charlize Theron as a prostitute who becomes a serial killer. It's a chilling exploration of the circumstances that can lead someone to commit heinous acts.

Fact: Charlize Theron won an Academy Award for Best Actress for her transformative performance. The film was shot in a documentary style to enhance its realism.

Description: While not directly about prostitution, this film features a subplot where the protagonist, Kitty Fane, becomes involved with a man who frequents prostitutes, leading to dramatic consequences. It's a story of personal growth and redemption.

Fact: The film was shot in China, providing an authentic backdrop to the story. Naomi Watts and Edward Norton deliver compelling performances in this adaptation of W. Somerset Maugham's novel.

Description: This film by Steven Soderbergh follows a high-end escort, Chelsea, during the week leading up to the 2008 presidential election. It's a nuanced look at the transactional nature of relationships and the impact of economic downturns on personal lives.

Fact: The film was shot in just 12 days with a very small crew. It was also one of the first films to be released simultaneously in theaters and on video-on-demand.

Description: This film tells the true story of Mark O'Brien, a poet paralyzed from the neck down, who hires a sex surrogate, Cheryl Cohen-Greene, to lose his virginity. It's a touching exploration of human sexuality and disability.

Fact: Helen Hunt received an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress for her role as Cheryl. The film was adapted from O'Brien's essay "On Seeing a Sex Surrogate."

Description: Based on a true story, this film stars Jennifer Love Hewitt as a single mother who turns to prostitution to support her family. It's a dramatic portrayal of economic desperation and the lengths one might go to provide for loved ones.

Fact: The film led to a TV series of the same name, which continued the story. Hewitt also served as an executive producer for the series.

Description: Told in reverse chronological order, this film explores themes of revenge, violence, and the consequences of actions, centered around a brutal attack on a woman, Alex, who was once a prostitute.

Fact: The film's graphic content and controversial scenes have made it one of the most divisive films of the 2000s. It was shot in a single, continuous take for much of its runtime.

Description: This German film follows the life of a young man whose mother is a prostitute, exploring his coming of age amidst the backdrop of her profession. It's a poignant look at family dynamics and societal judgment.

Fact: The film was well-received at various film festivals, winning several awards for its realistic portrayal of life in the red-light district.

Description: Set in 19th-century France, this film explores the passionate and tumultuous relationship between a young aristocrat and his mistress, who was once a courtesan. It's a lush, dramatic tale of love and societal constraints.

Fact: The film was adapted from the novel "Une vieille maîtresse" by Jules Barbey d'Aurevilly. It features lavish costumes and settings, reflecting the opulence of the era.