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Culture Theatre

Cheap Porn

PORN LIFE written and directed by Bobby Del Rio. At Alchemy Theatre (133 Tecumseth). To December 2. Pwyc-$20. www.apornlife.com. Rating: NN


The most provocative aspect of Porn Life is its title. Sure, there’s lots of innuendo, a few laughs, some dry humping and even a dildo or two, but any arousal wears off before long.

Porn director Eddie Price (Hart Massey) is dealing with the personal problems of his star, Walter (Brenhan McKibbon), his underage assistant, Johnny Dong (Brent Ehman), and an actors’ strike. Meanwhile, former porn star Sara Sweet (Rebecca Nicholson) is trying desperately for a comeback, despite an unfortunate industry-related health issue.

In terms of acting, “campy” comes to mind, but so does summer-camp production. Thankfully, Massey, who’s onstage the most, brings both charm and three-dimensionality to his role. Eddie is arrogant but also likeable and fun to watch. And although all the hot-bodied women have perfected their I-want-to-suck-you-off porn looks, Nicholson actually shows a variety of expressions and strives to bring some dignity to her character.

Writer/director Bobby Del Rio originally envisioned Porn Life as a television mockumentary – and you can tell. The scenes lack smooth transitions, as if he’s directed it shot-by-shot. Coupled with the crude lighting, lack of set (except for a few moveable chairs) and unimaginative costumes that offer more coverage than you’d expect given the subject, the stage adaptation looks aimless and rudimentary.

The concept is clever, but this show isn’t raunchy enough to shock, not nude enough to thrill and – aside from a promising opening song and a few one-liners – not funny enough to keep your spirits, or anything else, up for long.

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