Goodbye Seventies (2020) - full transcript
In the 1970s, the golden age of gay pornography in New York City, a promising chorus boy is injured and told he will never dance again. Distraught and unimpressed with the "art" films ...
You ready?
Okay.
Let's get this over with.
(LIGHT KEYBOARD ATMOSPHERE
MUSIC)
(KNOCKING)
Hey!
Welcome to the seventies!
(LAUGHING)
INTERVIEWER: Is that
when you first met?
Oh no.
We met a few months before then.
When Bradford first moved to New
York.
(JUBILANT PIANO MUSIC)
He was a small town chorus
boy ready to be devoured.
He got cast in this god awful
musical
that I designed the sets for.
(BASS HEAVY FUNK ATMOSPHERE
MUSIC)
BRADFORD VO: Oh god no.
Vinny and I never slept
together.
Did he tell you that?
No, it was much deeper than
that.
He was a true friend.
(FLUTE ACCOMPANIMENT)
(PHONE RINGING)
STAGE HAND: Phone call for
you, Vinny!
Hello?
Again?
Really?
(LAUGHING)
Yeah, okay.
I'll be right there.
Thanks for bailing me out,
Vinny.
You have the worst luck in the
toilets.
I know, I don't wanna talk
about it.
I told you, just take
a dirty diaper with you,
and when the police
come in you can show it
to them and explain that
you are incontinent.
That is disgusting.
Yeah, but it works.
You've really never been to the
baths?
BRADFORD VO: Days went by.
Months.
I think I spent more time at the
baths
than I did at my apartment.
I know Vinny did.
VINNY VO: It's not true.
I went there occasionally.
Everybody did.
It was a different time.
Blackened soul.
It won't come out.
Black ink.
It won't wash out.
They haven't washed
these floors since 1888.
It's the black stain.
See what I'm talking about?
Back of my neck?
You see these black
fingerprints?
You think I'm crazy don't you?
Coming back here one more time.
You think it's funny don't you?
Really it ain't.
They send the most handsome
ones, the ones like you.
Yeah.
And then they get us to blow
them.
They take their hands,
put them on the back
of our heads, and we go down on
them.
We have the most delicious time
just going up and down
on those sweet cocks.
And then we all know that
they've got
their fingers dipped
in that indelible ink.
The kind that won't come out.
And then they bring in the raid.
Yeah, the raid.
They bring them in and they line
us up.
And they look at the back of our
necks
and they look for these
black fingerprints.
And any one of us with the black
stain
they arrest for lewd conduct.
But they ain't gonna get me, oh
no.
'Cause this shit's gonna get
washed out.
I'm gonna wash this shit out.
I know you think I'm crazy, but
I'm not.
No no, they ain't gonna get me.
I'm too smart for them.
And I'm too strong.
They ain't gonna get me.
No sir.
No no no.
No no no no no.
BRADFORD: Time stood still
there.
That's a hard thing to walk away
from.
VINNY VO: Once in a
while we did get out.
For a show or club opening.
The first discos didn't have
names.
We called it The 13th Floor
because that's where it was.
You had to be a member to get
in.
And they didn't serve alcohol.
The elevator was always broken.
In those days, we would do
anything.
That was part of the appeal.
Excitement.
Finding a little bit of
Heaven amongst the Hell.
Watch out, watch out.
(SYNTHPOP ATMOSPHERE MUSIC)
Where is everybody?
It's early.
Wait, you designed this space?
Yes.
Bullshit.
You did nothing.
I got us memberships didn't I?
Best thing about this club is
that
Everhard is right across the
street.
Shall we?
Yes.
Where's my shirt?
Here.
Wear this.
(GASPING)
Shit.
Bradford!
Bradford!
Bradford!
I'm coming.
Bradford!
Bradford!
BRADFORD: You are gonna get
me
kicked out of this building.
Oh hush, they love the drama.
Who's they?
You might as well keep them.
They're my spare keys.
Oh, I brought these for you.
Thank you, Vinny.
They're plastic, so you don't
have to
put them in water and they won't
die.
How thoughtful.
Don't you wanna know where I
got these?
I don't think so.
You mind if I take a shower?
I just couldn't go home to mom
smelling like formaldehyde.
(CHUCKLING)
Of course not.
(PHONE RINGING)
Who could that be at this
ungodly hour?
If it's for me, I'm not here.
Hello?
Oh hi mom, yes it's me.
I don't know, I just haven't
found the right girl yet.
What am I, chopped liver?
Well I should go.
We have rehearsal today.
Yes, mom.
Love you too.
You didn't tell them about
your leg.
They don't need to know about
that.
Really?
Yes.
Isn't it time you got home to
your mommy?
Okay okay, I'll shut up.
I'll never dance again.
Nonsense.
It's what the doctor said.
What does he know?
More than you.
The hell am I gonna do now?
(SNICKERING)
Come on, let's go to a movie.
What movie?
VINNY: Come on!
(FUNKY ATMOSPHERE MUSIC)
BRADFORD: What the hell is
this?
Trust me.
Good afternoon.
Two tickets please.
Thank you.
(SPEAKING IN FOREIGN LANGUAGE)
There aren't even any English
subtitles.
How are we supposed to
understand this?
I don't think there's much of
a plot.
Shhh!
(SPEAKING IN FOREIGN LANGUAGE)
That's my cue.
You coming?
I gotta take a leak.
Hey, do not leave without me.
I won't.
(SPEAKING IN FOREIGN LANGUAGE)
Sorry.
Don't be sorry.
Don't get too close.
Get in the row behind me
(MOANING)
Need some help, darling?
No, I can manage.
Thank you.
Want me to shake it for you?
No thanks.
It's okay.
Don't be shy.
I'm here if you need me.
Don't touch me.
Do you want me to turn
the water on for you?
That usually helps.
Sure.
No hot water?
Cheap bitch.
I get off on you guys
watching me get off.
(WATER RUNNING)
I can turn you on.
No charge.
Free love, baby.
Free motherfucking love.
(URINATING)
Success.
(FLUSHING)
Watch out for the razors.
What?
The razor blades.
(SPEAKING IN FOREIGN LANGUAGE)
(WATER RUNNING)
You won't feel a thing.
Unless your pants are a
thin material, or too tight.
Then your ass is gonna get
razored.
Ouch.
Thanks.
That's why I wear a dress.
No pockets to razor.
And carry a purse.
With a brick in it.
Comes in handy in case
someone tries to fuck with me.
Oh, and to kill rats.
You want to party?
No, not right now.
Maybe later?
Okay.
I'll be waiting, cookies.
Those are some nice cookies.
Thanks.
(MOANING)
(NEW WAVE ATMOSPHERE MUSIC)
(SPEAKING IN FOREIGN LANGUAGE)
BUSINESSMAN: Hey!
What the hell are you doing?
Hey!
That guy stole my wallet!
(APPLAUDING)
(LOUD MOANING)
CONSTRUCTION WORKER: That's
mine.
VINNY: That's all my money.
BRADFORD: Did everyone get
everything?
There's still some cash here.
PAUL: I'll take it.
Don't let him back in.
(LOUD MOANING)
(KNOCKING)
VINNY: You almost ready?
Almost.
I don't know if I'm up for going
out.
VINNY: Oh come on.
It's been weeks.
When you fall off the wagon,
you just have to get right back
on.
I don't think that's the
expression.
You know what I mean.
(SYNTHPOP ATMOSPHERE MUSIC)
There's no way I'm gonna
make it up those stairs.
You go ahead.
No, I'm not abandoning you
here.
You're sweet.
Really, it's okay.
No, it's not okay.
Let's go across the
street to the Everhard.
I'm not supposed to get this
wet.
Ooh.
(LAUGHING)
(SENSUAL ATMOSPHERE MUSIC)
Oh yeah.
(MOANING)
Oh fuck.
Oh fuck yeah.
Don't stop.
(GRUNTING)
Sorry.
I didn't mean to cum so quickly.
I'll be good to go again in a
few minutes.
Smoke?
Sure.
How'd it happen?
What?
Your leg.
Skiing accident.
In June?
Maybe that's why.
Not enough snow.
Can I sign it?
Sure, you got a pen?
You're not a cop are you?
What?
That's an awfully big pen.
Heard about cops coming in here
and marking guys engaging
in lewd behavior.
What?
That's ridiculous.
You didn't answer my question.
No.
I'm not a cop.
Okay.
Horse.
That can't be your real name.
Is it?
It is.
Well that's what most people
call me.
I wonder why.
(CHUCKLING)
No, really.
My full name is Charlie Horse.
My parents had a real sense of
humor.
Uh-huh.
What's yours?
My name?
You do have one right?
Yes.
(SENSUAL ATMOSPHERE MUSIC)
I'm Bradford.
Hi.
I brought coffee and
croissants.
Don't ask me where I got these.
I know better.
I know what I'm gonna do now.
(PHONE RINGING)
Hello?
Hi.
Horse?
It's Bradford.
Uh-huh.
We met at the Everhard
Baths a few months ago.
You know, the guy with the cast?
Yes, I know who you are.
What time is it?
I don't know, it's quite late.
Sorry, did I wake you?
No.
It's okay.
What's up?
Do you wanna be in a movie?
What?
How?
You don't know anything
about making a movie.
I can learn.
We can learn.
We?
What am I gonna do?
(CAMERA WHIRRING)
It's not working.
Vinny, why don't you help him
out.
Hmm?
Yeah.
(CAMERA WHIRRING)
And you can make the sets.
Oh really?
We could make something that
is
better than that dreck we saw.
Well yes, anybody could
do better than that.
We could make something real.
Something about our lives.
What they're really like.
Would anyone wanna see that?
Yes, they would.
You are crazy.
So what do you say?
(SIGHING)
Sure.
Why not?
(MOANING)
Are you okay?
No, leave him.
What?
(LAUGHING)
Keep going.
Keep going.
It's real.
Silly and messy and real.
(MOANING)
ADAM: Did you see her
hair in that new movie?
Oh god yes.
Everyone coming into the salon
wants to get a shag now.
I'm gonna die of boredom.
I know.
Could I get some more
lasagna please, Mrs. DeMarco?
Of course.
But please, call me Esta.
Okay, Esta.
Oh, no thanks.
I'm stuffed.
So how about me?
Would I look good in a shag?
Come on down to the salon.
I'll do you.
(LAUGHING)
Mom, stop flirting with the
talent.
Shut your mouth!
What would dad think?
Don't talk about your father.
And what, you're not eating?
I still have a scene to do.
You remind me of my husband.
God rest his soul.
(GIGGLING)
Still no answer.
Fuck!
Watch your mouth!
Ow!
Sorry, mom!
It looks like Randy's not
coming.
So what are we gonna do?
I'll do it.
What?
If that's all right with you.
Yeah.
Wait, who's gonna work the
camera?
You.
I don't know how to work a
camera.
It's easy, I'll set it up
and you just press the button.
Right there.
Okay.
You ready?
HORSE: Yeah.
Press the button.
(CAMERA WHIRRING)
(MOANING)
The film ran out.
Damn it, didn't you notice?
No!
I told you I don't know
how to use a camera.
How was I supposed to know?
Sorry.
I know it's not your fault.
We could shoot it again.
No, we're out of film.
Well what then?
I know.
We'll put it as the
last scene of the movie.
It'll leave them wanting more.
It's like we cum so hard
that we white out the screen.
Okay.
And then we can leave it write
and have the credits in black
type over it
so the whole theater is bathed
in this bright, white light.
So everyone can see each other.
Is that such a good idea?
Do they wanna see who's next to
them
or on their knees in front of
them?
Yes, it's a brilliant idea.
This dark damp theater, this
place
of shame, will be bathed in
light.
We will all come out of the
darkness and into the light.
Oh brother.
If you say so.
Speaking of credits,
what should our names be?
What do you mean?
We can't use our real names.
Why not?
We could get arrested, or
worse.
Besides, Bradford Christianson
and Vincenzo DeMarco are not
exactly the sexiest names.
He has a point there.
Oh shut up.
What about Brad Ford?
Just your first name?
No, first name Brad, last name
Ford.
Oooh, I get it.
Like a truck.
Very macho.
Yeah, I like that.
And it's my real name, so I'm
not
ashamed or hiding it or
anything.
What should my name be?
What about your initials?
VD?
Yeah, that's gonna get them
excited and into the theater.
(LAUGHING)
What about Marco?
Just Marco?
Just Marco.
First boy I was ever in
love with was named Marco.
What about me?
You are Horse.
You will always be Horse.
And you are going to be a
star.
But where are we gonna show
it?
Hello.
We would like to speak
to the owner please.
$5 each.
No, we're not here to watch a
movie.
We just wanna talk to the
owner.
Everybody pays to enter.
Okay.
Now can we speak to the owner?
Uh-huh.
Well where is he?
Can you get him for us?
I am the owner.
BRADFORD: Oh.
Uh-huh.
Now what the fuck do you want?
We made a film.
Uh-huh.
BRADFORD: And we would
like to show it here.
Oh really?
What kind of film?
It's a film about what happens
with men when they are with...
You know, what happens when they
go to a place where they can...
It's a gay porn film.
First of all, we don't show
porn here.
We show art films.
Right, and our film is an art
film.
And second, we don't
show no fag movies here.
Oh no, we know that.
We've been here before.
But everyone who goes here is
gay.
And they're all having sex
with each other in the theater.
So if it was an actual gay
film,
a gay art film, on the screen,
they would
be happier and you would do more
business.
Oh really?
You think so?
You know so much about running a
theater.
No, we don't know anything
about running a theater,
but we do know our film is
really good
and the guys here would love it.
You don't get it.
No one's going to come
to see a gay sex film.
No one that comes here is gay.
Really?
They may have sex with each
other
when they're in the theater,
I don't know what goes on in
there.
But they're not gay when they
come in
and they're not got when they
leave.
You understand what I mean?
Not really.
If I show a gay movie here,
then everyone that comes in will
be gay.
Everyone seeing them come
in will know they're gay.
They'll know they're gay when
they leave.
No one will come in.
Excuse me, sir.
If they were to show a gay film
here,
a gay art film, would you come
and see it?
Would you be afraid to come
in, to be seen coming in?
Gay art film?
Real man on man action.
Yeah, hardcore action.
Oh my.
That would be wonderful.
Okay.
You're in luck.
This movie isn't doing any
business
and I need something new.
I'm willing to try anything.
Let me see your movie.
If it's any good, I'll show it
for a week.
If it does better than this one,
I'll keep it on longer.
Fantastic.
What's it called?
A Night at the Everhard Baths.
Let's just call it Everhard.
I think that gets the point
across
and not scare away anyone.
I don't know.
I...
No, shut up.
Yup, that would be fun.
We'll split the box office
90/10.
90 going to...
Me.
We were thinking more like
50/50?
(LAUGHING)
No.
How about 60/40?
There's the door.
Okay, 80/20, how about that?
Okay.
We'll start the movie on Friday.
Really?
This Friday?
Yeah.
I thought you wanted to
watch it first and decide.
It can't be worse than the
crap
we're showing now, can it?
No.
Well there you go then.
See you on Friday.
Leave it.
What are you doing?
Well we paid.
Might as well go in.
(EASY LISTENING ATMOSPHERE
MUSIC)
BRADFORD: Where is everyone?
Well it's 10 AM on a Friday,
so everyone is at work.
Which is where I should be.
BRADFORD: I know, but you
would
think someone would show up.
Isn't it time to open up?
I need my coffee first.
Congratulations.
Thank you.
Anyone come in yet?
No.
Well it's early.
MALCOLM: What is this?
A firing squad?
No, it's our movie that's
playing
and you're our first audience
member.
We hope you enjoy it.
Okay.
Well I should get back to
work.
I'll see you guys later.
This is anticlimactic.
Let's get out of here.
We'll come back after dark.
And it will be packed.
You promise?
Yes.
Come on.
(RHYTHMIC BASS DRUMMING)
Hey.
What's this?
It's our movie.
You should come see it tonight.
I work here.
I don't need to see a
movie about this place.
But if you want me in
your movie, let me know.
I'm just here.
Waiting to be discovered.
(SYNTHPOP ACCOMPANIMENT)
MOVIEGOER: Hey, how are you?
Hey, glad you guys could come
out.
Can you believe it?
What, you had your doubts?
Well frankly, yes.
I'm just kidding with you.
I didn't think anyone
was gonna show up either.
I knew they'd come.
Yes you did.
Thank you.
We better go in.
I saved us three seats in the
back.
Yes, let's go in.
LEXXY: 50?
Shit.
(APPLAUDING)
My big scene is next.
Okay, woohoo!
All right!
(APPLAUDING)
Is he your boyfriend?
Husband actually.
Really?
Yeah.
You don't like to watch him
perform?
No.
I don't mind.
I'm a performer myself, so...
Oh, I see.
But I really wanna be a makeup
artist.
That's what I came to New York
to be.
Well we all come here to be
something.
Here, let me fix your
lipstick.
What's wrong with it?
Nothing.
It could just be a little
softer.
Softer?
I don't wanna be softer.
Okay, well harder then.
How's that?
Okay.
Did you see me?
Yeah.
You were great.
Liar.
Everyone thought you were
great.
Thanks.
Hey.
I love you.
I know.
Fluffy!
(APPLAUDING)
VINNY: Is this it?
Yup.
Seems a little light.
Yeah, well business
hasn't been so great.
Are you kidding?
We've had packed houses every
night.
Not really.
Really?
You haven't been here for
every show.
Do we need to have someone in
here
every night counting heads?
I think we do.
It's true, we were screwed
over with our first movie,
but it played for months
and we made a hell
of a lot more money than
we ever thought we would.
And more importantly, we learned
a lot.
We didn't make the same mistakes
again.
Hey, you can't sleep here.
One.
Two.
Three.
Four.
Five.
Six.
Seven.
Eight.
Nine.
10.
11.
12.
13?
Yup.
(FUNKY ATMOSPHERE MUSIC)
We had a total head count
of 379, so you owe us...
$947.50.
Yeah yeah yeah yeah, I can do
math.
What is it?
Fan mail.
Read it.
Dear Brad.
I saw your latest movie at the
Nob Hill Theater and loved it.
I have been back to see it five
times
and will probably go
back to see it tonight.
I still haven't seen
the ending, wink wink.
I would love to be in one of
your movies,
preferably in a scene with
Horse.
I have enclosed some pictures of
myself.
Oh my.
Let me see.
If you're ever in San
Francisco, give me a call.
A huge fan, Mitch.
Oh yeah.
I could work with that.
Nice.
San Francisco.
How the hell did he see the
movie there?
We only have the one print.
(CHUCKLING)
There's another letter.
From Chicago.
What the hell is going on?
(FUNKY ATMOSPHERE MUSIC)
What do you think you're
doing?
Just doing my job.
I have to get this film to
the lab so they can copy it.
Oh yeah?
Hey wait.
I recognize you.
You're the guy in the movie.
Yes.
Yes I am.
Thank god some of the
movies got bootlegged.
Otherwise we would have nothing.
They may not be the best
quality.
Faded, blurry, et cetera,
but at least it's something.
Crude as the copies are,
they are all we have left.
(SYNTHPOP ATMOSPHERE MUSIC)
BRADFORD VO: We started
making money.
Good money.
More than we ever dreamed of.
We used the money to make more
movies.
More elaborate movies,
with dialogue and plots.
I'm sorry.
I forgot my line.
Cut!
Sorry.
Don't worry about the
lines for right now.
We can dub it all later
like the Italians do.
Oh.
Just say a bunch of numbers
and react.
Great.
Okay, thanks.
Sorry.
Okay, and action!
One.
94.
Three.
Eight.
Oh.
Well sure, I'll try anything
once.
BRADFORD VO: We still
didn't know what we were doing,
but we felt we were on to
something
and the movies got better and
better.
And she paid me with this.
You have the best clients.
I know.
Have you seen her hair in
that dreadful new movie?
Oh yeah, it's terrible.
I know.
Everyone coming into the salon
wants to get a perm now.
I know.
I'm gonna die from the fumes.
Bradford, do you have
something we could...
I got just the thing.
You want some?
Sure.
You have done this before
right?
Of course.
VINNY VO: Cocaine?
Bradford was the worst.
He made fun of me for
buying my car and my furs.
But at least I didn't
spend all my money on coke.
It all went up his nose.
ESTA: Hello boys!
EVERYONE: Hi, Esta!
Oh no, not you too.
What?
Ignore him.
You look delicious.
Thanks.
You boys hungry?
I can whip something up in a
jiffy.
Oh no, we're not very hungry.
No?
Maybe later.
Nobody wants to eat anything
anymore.
You're all gonna waste away to
nothing.
Mom.
Okay, and action!
♪ Higher, higher, higher ♪
(SINGING IN FOREIGN LANGUAGE)
BRADFORD VO: I don't do
drugs.
Drugs just complicate things.
And everything and everyone
in my life is complicated
enough.
I don't need the hassle.
♪ Higher, higher, higher ♪
BRADFORD VO: I don't wanna
talk about drugs anymore.
Could you fix him up a little
bit?
Yeah.
Sit down.
Hey.
You okay, Fluffy?
Don't call me that.
Okay, Fluffy.
You still love me?
Yeah.
Hey.
Everything's gonna be fine.
I promise.
You're all set.
BRADFORD VO: It's so cliche.
Yeah, porn stars died of drug
overdoses.
And that's terrible and sad.
But bank tellers and
housewives and lawyers
and doctors died of drug
overdoses too.
Horse, are you ready?
What are you into?
Anything.
Everything.
Good.
What about you?
You'll find out.
And...
Action.
BRADFORD VO: Porn didn't kill
them.
The drugs did.
VINNY VO: There was a good
turnout for Paul's funeral.
An interesting turnout.
Funerals for young gay
men were a novelty then.
A lot of his Johns showed
up and other hustlers.
And all of us of course.
His family from rural Virginia
had no idea what was going on.
(SOMBER ATMOSPHERE MUSIC)
BRADFORD VO: Paul's overdose
probably saved our lives.
Well most of our lives.
Beth and Matt stopped
doing heroin that night.
Everyone stayed over at my
place.
Even Vinny's mom, Esta, stayed.
And took care of us like we were
a bunch of kids having a
sleepover.
We would have gone to
the Everhard that night.
The night of the fire.
Beth and Matt stayed with me
for a few weeks while they
kicked heroin.
It was rough, but they made it
through.
REPORTER: Fire broke
out early this morning
at the Everhard Baths on 28th
Street.
At least nine men are dead.
Dozens injured.
The seedy Manhattan
bathhouse, which catered
almost exclusively to
homosexual men, was crowded
with as many as a
hundred overnight guests.
VINNY VO: We didn't know
the names of anyone who died.
But we knew them all.
Better than our own
families in a lot of ways.
Looking back now, that was
the beginning of the end.
(MOANING)
BRADFORD VO: I wanted
to do something different.
Something more ambitious.
I mean it's still porn, but
I wanted to say something.
No.
(DRAMATIC SYNTH ATMOSPHERE
MUSIC)
BRADFORD VO: Every day
you live as a gay man,
you risk being teased,
beaten up, or killed.
That is what we live with
every minute of every day.
It's no surprise some
guys can't handle it.
They stay in the closet,
or try to pass as straight,
or even live as straight
with a wife and kids.
But that doesn't change who they
are.
Desire always wins in the end.
I was raised Catholic and was
always
told faggots would go to Hell.
The only way to Heaven
was to become straight.
It was drilled into my head, and
that
screws with you in all
sorts of ways, right?
So I wanted to make a movie
where Heaven is all gay men.
That is the Heaven I want to go
to.
A Heaven where there is no
judgment.
Just love.
That's what I don't get
about the Catholic Church.
Why do they hate gay people so
much?
Why so much hate?
They can have their Heaven.
I'll take mine.
VINNY VO: It wasn't a big hit
back then when it came out.
People didn't get it.
They thought it was weird and
dark.
They get it now.
Still, it did okay.
And we toured the country with
it.
It was in San Francisco
that Horse first got sick.
(TECHNO ATMOSPHERE MUSIC)
It's showtime.
Come on, superstar.
It's time to shake your money
maker.
I don't feel well.
(COUGHING)
Jesus, you're burning up.
I told you I was sick.
We need to get you to a
hospital.
No.
No hospitals.
Okay, well let's take
a cold shower then.
No.
I have to do the show.
BRADFORD: No, fuck the show.
(WATER RUNNING)
(KNOCKING)
Shit.
Let me handle this.
(KNOCKING)
Where is he?
He's late.
He's not feeling well.
I don't care.
He needs to get his ass on that
stage.
I have a full house.
Excuse me!
We have a contract.
Five shows a night.
If you breach that contract,
you get paid nothing.
And I'll sue you for the
advertising we've done.
Oh fuck.
I'll do it.
No you won't.
I'll do it.
What?
They didn't pay to see you.
Yes, but I am in the movie
and I will give them their
money's worth.
Or do you wanna give them all
refunds?
Welcome to the world
famous Nob Hill Cinema.
We have a special guest
performer tonight.
The legendary porn director,
and one of the stars
of The Other Side of Heaven,
Brad Ford.
(APPLAUDING)
Feel free to get as intimate
with Brad as you like,
but if you do whip it
out and whack it off,
be sure to wipe up after
yourself.
Enjoy the show.
(TECHNO TRANCE DANCE MUSIC)
(KNOCKING)
Come in!
It's all there.
VINNY VO: We cut the tour
short after San Francisco.
Bradford decided we needed a
vacation.
So we headed to Fire Island.
We were all gonna send the rest
of the summer there at my place.
I knew Bradford wouldn't last
long.
He was a dancer, remember?
And us theater folk
can never really relax.
After a couple of weeks, the
anxiety
of not working, of maybe
never working again, kicks in.
(FUNKY ATMOSPHERE MUSIC)
I have an idea for another
movie.
Should I start packing?
No.
We'll film it all out here.
Call everybody, tell them
to get out here right now.
Okay.
(LAUGHING)
Hello, Matt.
What brings you in today?
Hey doc, I need a shot of
penicillin.
Why?
What's going on?
I'm heading out to
Fire Island this weekend.
Oh, I see.
Well take your pants down.
Does the shot have to be in my
ass?
Yes, why?
It's my bread and butter.
Don't bruise or mark it up.
Don't worry.
Be right back.
(CAMERA WHIRRING)
Come on Matt, we're ready for
you.
How does my ass look?
It looks fine.
Just fine?
The world doesn't
revolve around your ass.
It doesn't?
(LAUGHING)
Seriously, are you keeping it
clean?
Yeah.
Well I had a little
something just to relax.
Bad boy.
How about you?
Yeah.
Clean and sober.
Except for the whiskey.
It's better than heroin.
No it isn't.
Seriously though.
Does it look okay?
No bruises or zits?
No.
It looks fine, perfect.
Like two scoops of vanilla ice
cream.
Now get to work.
Next victim!
Hi, Horse.
Hi.
You gonna keep your socks on?
I prefer to, if that's okay?
Sure.
It's not up to me.
You look good.
Thanks.
Stand up.
Turn around.
What's this?
I don't know.
It's okay.
I'll cover it up.
(FUNKY ATMOSPHERE MUSIC)
Hello, Matt.
I think I need another
shot of penicillin.
Busy weekend?
Oh yeah.
VINNY VO: Soon after we
returned
to Manhattan, Horse got sick
again.
Really sick.
There was no getting out of
going
to the hospital this time.
Hey.
How's it going?
Not good.
They wouldn't let me see him
today.
What?
They're only letting family
see him now.
That's ridiculous.
We're more family to
him than those rednecks.
Come on, let's go down there.
I can't argue with them
anymore.
He hates hospitals.
And now he's trapped there.
I can't go back.
Did you hear that Everhard is
open again?
What?
How is that possible?
I don't know, but it's true.
You know, Horse and I met there.
I know.
I was there, remember?
Let's go.
(FUNKY ATMOSPHERE MUSIC)
You hear about that gay
cancer?
I'm sick of hearing about it.
Scares the hell out of me.
I mean aren't you scared?
I heard you get it from sex.
Shut up.
Just fuck me.
So you're giving up sex?
No.
Well maybe.
Sex is my life.
I've given up everything else.
It's all I have left.
If I give up sex, I might as
well be dead.
So if too much sex is going
to kill me, well that's that.
VINNY VO: Horse
remained in the hospital
all through the holidays.
Vinny!
It was on New Year's Eve
that we got the call.
(PHONE RINGING)
(FUNKY ATMOSPHERE MUSIC)
EVERYONE: 10!
Nine!
Eight!
Seven!
Six!
Five!
Four!
Three!
Two!
One!
Happy New Year!
Welcome to the eighties!
(CHEERING)
(FIREWORKS EXPLODING)
(URINATING)
(FLUSHING)
(KNOCKING)
Do you want some?
Sure.
What are you doing?
BRADFORD: I'm editing the
movie.
You don't have to do that.
I mean...
Not right now.
Yeah, I need to finish it.
Okay.
I'll start cleaning up.
No, leave it.
I'll clean up later.
I just need some time alone
right now.
I need to finish this.
I'll call you when I'm ready.
When I'm done.
You understand don't you?
Yeah.
Yeah, I understand.
I love you, Vinny.
I love you too.
VINNY VO: I don't know if
he ever finished that movie.
I guess we'll never know.
I'm not gonna talk about it.
I'm done talking.
STAGE HAND: Vinny,
there's a phone call for you!
Hello?
(DRAMATIC SYNTHPOP ATMOSPHERE
MUSIC)
VINNY VO: Bradford's parents
had beaten me to his apartment.
They destroyed all the movies.
BRADFORD: Dear Vinny.
I finished the movie.
I think it's our best film.
I hope it is anyway.
I want to go out on a high note.
I hate to leave you like this,
but I don't want to go
through what Horse did.
He was the love my life.
And I never got a chance to tell
him that.
Tell everyone I said goodbye.
I love you.
Bradford.
VINNY VO: I'll never forgive
Bradford.
Not just for killing himself,
but for erasing all of us with
him.
I tried to make movies without
Bradford.
Using the latest in video
technology.
But it wasn't the same.
My heart wasn't in it.
What are you doing?
I don't know.
I'm gonna cum.
What?
I'm gonna cum.
(MOANING)
Did you get it?
Yeah.
Good, this water's freezing.
(FUNKY ATMOSPHERE MUSIC)
Hello?
Hello?
Are you open?
Oh hello, Mrs. DeMarco.
Yes, we're open.
Esta please.
Where is everyone?
I had to let everyone go.
Business has been deader than
dead.
I don't know why I bother coming
in.
Gives me something to do I
guess.
So you can squeeze me in.
Yes.
I do believe I can squeeze you
in.
Are you sure you want to get
your hair cut by an AIDS faggot?
I was thinking of
giving my hair feathers.
You know, like that girl on TV?
What do you think?
How about some highlights too?
That would be delicious.
Another funeral?
Yeah.
Richard.
I feel like I live in a suit
now.
I know.
Someone should just
design leather suits.
That way you could go right
from the funerals to the bars.
Not a bad idea.
Vinny.
There you are.
I was looking for you
everywhere.
You were?
(CHUCKLING)
Well I'm here.
You can always find me here.
How are you?
Not so good.
I was wondering if you might
be able to help me out here.
You know, with a few bucks.
What happened to the
money I gave you last time?
It's not the same.
I'm not the same.
I'm clean now.
I want to go to community
college
and study computer science.
What?
I'm telling you the truth.
I want to clean up my life.
It's okay.
I believe you.
No.
You don't.
VINNY: Does it matter?
Yes, it odes.
I'm not a complete waste of
space.
I need you to believe that.
How much money do you need?
5,000.
Let me get my checkbook.
VINNY VO: Matt did end up
getting
his degree in computer science
and getting
a job doing something with
computers.
I don't know anything about
them,
so I can't tell you more about
it.
He even paid me back with
interest.
He still did some porn
occasionally,
but more for the attention than
the money.
Then, on the fifth anniversary
of his getting clean, he decided
to celebrate by shooting up one
last time.
Everyone thought it was suicide.
But I prefer to think it
was just a stupid accident.
The Everhard was shut
down in April of 1986
by Mayor Ed Koch with the help
of some narrow-minded,
self-loathing gays.
They thought they would
stop the spread of AIDS.
They didn't.
All they did was force us
all back in the closet.
Lexxy's theater stayed open
longer than
the other porn theaters because
Lexxy
owned the building and lived
there.
But eventually, Mayor Giuliani
got to her.
Thank God some of the
movies got bootlegged.
Otherwise we would have nothing.
They may not be the best
quality.
Blurry, faded.
But crude as the copies are,
they are all we have left.
Did you ever think
in your wildest dreams
that your films would be having
a retrospective at the
Museum of Modern Art?
(CHUCKLING)
No.
I can't believe it.
Bradford would have never
believed it.
I don't know why it's happening.
But I am grateful.
ESTA: Vincenzo, could you
come here
for a moment please?
Sorry.
My mother.
Will you mother be going
to the world premiere
of the restoration of Everhard
tonight?
Of course.
I wouldn't miss it for the
world.
(LAUGHING)
Well enjoy the premiere
and have a wonderful time
tonight.
(FUNKY ATMOSPHERE MUSIC)
(HEAVY TECHNO ATMOSPHERE MUSIC)
(SINGING IN FOREIGN LANGUAGE)
Okay.
Let's get this over with.
(LIGHT KEYBOARD ATMOSPHERE
MUSIC)
(KNOCKING)
Hey!
Welcome to the seventies!
(LAUGHING)
INTERVIEWER: Is that
when you first met?
Oh no.
We met a few months before then.
When Bradford first moved to New
York.
(JUBILANT PIANO MUSIC)
He was a small town chorus
boy ready to be devoured.
He got cast in this god awful
musical
that I designed the sets for.
(BASS HEAVY FUNK ATMOSPHERE
MUSIC)
BRADFORD VO: Oh god no.
Vinny and I never slept
together.
Did he tell you that?
No, it was much deeper than
that.
He was a true friend.
(FLUTE ACCOMPANIMENT)
(PHONE RINGING)
STAGE HAND: Phone call for
you, Vinny!
Hello?
Again?
Really?
(LAUGHING)
Yeah, okay.
I'll be right there.
Thanks for bailing me out,
Vinny.
You have the worst luck in the
toilets.
I know, I don't wanna talk
about it.
I told you, just take
a dirty diaper with you,
and when the police
come in you can show it
to them and explain that
you are incontinent.
That is disgusting.
Yeah, but it works.
You've really never been to the
baths?
BRADFORD VO: Days went by.
Months.
I think I spent more time at the
baths
than I did at my apartment.
I know Vinny did.
VINNY VO: It's not true.
I went there occasionally.
Everybody did.
It was a different time.
Blackened soul.
It won't come out.
Black ink.
It won't wash out.
They haven't washed
these floors since 1888.
It's the black stain.
See what I'm talking about?
Back of my neck?
You see these black
fingerprints?
You think I'm crazy don't you?
Coming back here one more time.
You think it's funny don't you?
Really it ain't.
They send the most handsome
ones, the ones like you.
Yeah.
And then they get us to blow
them.
They take their hands,
put them on the back
of our heads, and we go down on
them.
We have the most delicious time
just going up and down
on those sweet cocks.
And then we all know that
they've got
their fingers dipped
in that indelible ink.
The kind that won't come out.
And then they bring in the raid.
Yeah, the raid.
They bring them in and they line
us up.
And they look at the back of our
necks
and they look for these
black fingerprints.
And any one of us with the black
stain
they arrest for lewd conduct.
But they ain't gonna get me, oh
no.
'Cause this shit's gonna get
washed out.
I'm gonna wash this shit out.
I know you think I'm crazy, but
I'm not.
No no, they ain't gonna get me.
I'm too smart for them.
And I'm too strong.
They ain't gonna get me.
No sir.
No no no.
No no no no no.
BRADFORD: Time stood still
there.
That's a hard thing to walk away
from.
VINNY VO: Once in a
while we did get out.
For a show or club opening.
The first discos didn't have
names.
We called it The 13th Floor
because that's where it was.
You had to be a member to get
in.
And they didn't serve alcohol.
The elevator was always broken.
In those days, we would do
anything.
That was part of the appeal.
Excitement.
Finding a little bit of
Heaven amongst the Hell.
Watch out, watch out.
(SYNTHPOP ATMOSPHERE MUSIC)
Where is everybody?
It's early.
Wait, you designed this space?
Yes.
Bullshit.
You did nothing.
I got us memberships didn't I?
Best thing about this club is
that
Everhard is right across the
street.
Shall we?
Yes.
Where's my shirt?
Here.
Wear this.
(GASPING)
Shit.
Bradford!
Bradford!
Bradford!
I'm coming.
Bradford!
Bradford!
BRADFORD: You are gonna get
me
kicked out of this building.
Oh hush, they love the drama.
Who's they?
You might as well keep them.
They're my spare keys.
Oh, I brought these for you.
Thank you, Vinny.
They're plastic, so you don't
have to
put them in water and they won't
die.
How thoughtful.
Don't you wanna know where I
got these?
I don't think so.
You mind if I take a shower?
I just couldn't go home to mom
smelling like formaldehyde.
(CHUCKLING)
Of course not.
(PHONE RINGING)
Who could that be at this
ungodly hour?
If it's for me, I'm not here.
Hello?
Oh hi mom, yes it's me.
I don't know, I just haven't
found the right girl yet.
What am I, chopped liver?
Well I should go.
We have rehearsal today.
Yes, mom.
Love you too.
You didn't tell them about
your leg.
They don't need to know about
that.
Really?
Yes.
Isn't it time you got home to
your mommy?
Okay okay, I'll shut up.
I'll never dance again.
Nonsense.
It's what the doctor said.
What does he know?
More than you.
The hell am I gonna do now?
(SNICKERING)
Come on, let's go to a movie.
What movie?
VINNY: Come on!
(FUNKY ATMOSPHERE MUSIC)
BRADFORD: What the hell is
this?
Trust me.
Good afternoon.
Two tickets please.
Thank you.
(SPEAKING IN FOREIGN LANGUAGE)
There aren't even any English
subtitles.
How are we supposed to
understand this?
I don't think there's much of
a plot.
Shhh!
(SPEAKING IN FOREIGN LANGUAGE)
That's my cue.
You coming?
I gotta take a leak.
Hey, do not leave without me.
I won't.
(SPEAKING IN FOREIGN LANGUAGE)
Sorry.
Don't be sorry.
Don't get too close.
Get in the row behind me
(MOANING)
Need some help, darling?
No, I can manage.
Thank you.
Want me to shake it for you?
No thanks.
It's okay.
Don't be shy.
I'm here if you need me.
Don't touch me.
Do you want me to turn
the water on for you?
That usually helps.
Sure.
No hot water?
Cheap bitch.
I get off on you guys
watching me get off.
(WATER RUNNING)
I can turn you on.
No charge.
Free love, baby.
Free motherfucking love.
(URINATING)
Success.
(FLUSHING)
Watch out for the razors.
What?
The razor blades.
(SPEAKING IN FOREIGN LANGUAGE)
(WATER RUNNING)
You won't feel a thing.
Unless your pants are a
thin material, or too tight.
Then your ass is gonna get
razored.
Ouch.
Thanks.
That's why I wear a dress.
No pockets to razor.
And carry a purse.
With a brick in it.
Comes in handy in case
someone tries to fuck with me.
Oh, and to kill rats.
You want to party?
No, not right now.
Maybe later?
Okay.
I'll be waiting, cookies.
Those are some nice cookies.
Thanks.
(MOANING)
(NEW WAVE ATMOSPHERE MUSIC)
(SPEAKING IN FOREIGN LANGUAGE)
BUSINESSMAN: Hey!
What the hell are you doing?
Hey!
That guy stole my wallet!
(APPLAUDING)
(LOUD MOANING)
CONSTRUCTION WORKER: That's
mine.
VINNY: That's all my money.
BRADFORD: Did everyone get
everything?
There's still some cash here.
PAUL: I'll take it.
Don't let him back in.
(LOUD MOANING)
(KNOCKING)
VINNY: You almost ready?
Almost.
I don't know if I'm up for going
out.
VINNY: Oh come on.
It's been weeks.
When you fall off the wagon,
you just have to get right back
on.
I don't think that's the
expression.
You know what I mean.
(SYNTHPOP ATMOSPHERE MUSIC)
There's no way I'm gonna
make it up those stairs.
You go ahead.
No, I'm not abandoning you
here.
You're sweet.
Really, it's okay.
No, it's not okay.
Let's go across the
street to the Everhard.
I'm not supposed to get this
wet.
Ooh.
(LAUGHING)
(SENSUAL ATMOSPHERE MUSIC)
Oh yeah.
(MOANING)
Oh fuck.
Oh fuck yeah.
Don't stop.
(GRUNTING)
Sorry.
I didn't mean to cum so quickly.
I'll be good to go again in a
few minutes.
Smoke?
Sure.
How'd it happen?
What?
Your leg.
Skiing accident.
In June?
Maybe that's why.
Not enough snow.
Can I sign it?
Sure, you got a pen?
You're not a cop are you?
What?
That's an awfully big pen.
Heard about cops coming in here
and marking guys engaging
in lewd behavior.
What?
That's ridiculous.
You didn't answer my question.
No.
I'm not a cop.
Okay.
Horse.
That can't be your real name.
Is it?
It is.
Well that's what most people
call me.
I wonder why.
(CHUCKLING)
No, really.
My full name is Charlie Horse.
My parents had a real sense of
humor.
Uh-huh.
What's yours?
My name?
You do have one right?
Yes.
(SENSUAL ATMOSPHERE MUSIC)
I'm Bradford.
Hi.
I brought coffee and
croissants.
Don't ask me where I got these.
I know better.
I know what I'm gonna do now.
(PHONE RINGING)
Hello?
Hi.
Horse?
It's Bradford.
Uh-huh.
We met at the Everhard
Baths a few months ago.
You know, the guy with the cast?
Yes, I know who you are.
What time is it?
I don't know, it's quite late.
Sorry, did I wake you?
No.
It's okay.
What's up?
Do you wanna be in a movie?
What?
How?
You don't know anything
about making a movie.
I can learn.
We can learn.
We?
What am I gonna do?
(CAMERA WHIRRING)
It's not working.
Vinny, why don't you help him
out.
Hmm?
Yeah.
(CAMERA WHIRRING)
And you can make the sets.
Oh really?
We could make something that
is
better than that dreck we saw.
Well yes, anybody could
do better than that.
We could make something real.
Something about our lives.
What they're really like.
Would anyone wanna see that?
Yes, they would.
You are crazy.
So what do you say?
(SIGHING)
Sure.
Why not?
(MOANING)
Are you okay?
No, leave him.
What?
(LAUGHING)
Keep going.
Keep going.
It's real.
Silly and messy and real.
(MOANING)
ADAM: Did you see her
hair in that new movie?
Oh god yes.
Everyone coming into the salon
wants to get a shag now.
I'm gonna die of boredom.
I know.
Could I get some more
lasagna please, Mrs. DeMarco?
Of course.
But please, call me Esta.
Okay, Esta.
Oh, no thanks.
I'm stuffed.
So how about me?
Would I look good in a shag?
Come on down to the salon.
I'll do you.
(LAUGHING)
Mom, stop flirting with the
talent.
Shut your mouth!
What would dad think?
Don't talk about your father.
And what, you're not eating?
I still have a scene to do.
You remind me of my husband.
God rest his soul.
(GIGGLING)
Still no answer.
Fuck!
Watch your mouth!
Ow!
Sorry, mom!
It looks like Randy's not
coming.
So what are we gonna do?
I'll do it.
What?
If that's all right with you.
Yeah.
Wait, who's gonna work the
camera?
You.
I don't know how to work a
camera.
It's easy, I'll set it up
and you just press the button.
Right there.
Okay.
You ready?
HORSE: Yeah.
Press the button.
(CAMERA WHIRRING)
(MOANING)
The film ran out.
Damn it, didn't you notice?
No!
I told you I don't know
how to use a camera.
How was I supposed to know?
Sorry.
I know it's not your fault.
We could shoot it again.
No, we're out of film.
Well what then?
I know.
We'll put it as the
last scene of the movie.
It'll leave them wanting more.
It's like we cum so hard
that we white out the screen.
Okay.
And then we can leave it write
and have the credits in black
type over it
so the whole theater is bathed
in this bright, white light.
So everyone can see each other.
Is that such a good idea?
Do they wanna see who's next to
them
or on their knees in front of
them?
Yes, it's a brilliant idea.
This dark damp theater, this
place
of shame, will be bathed in
light.
We will all come out of the
darkness and into the light.
Oh brother.
If you say so.
Speaking of credits,
what should our names be?
What do you mean?
We can't use our real names.
Why not?
We could get arrested, or
worse.
Besides, Bradford Christianson
and Vincenzo DeMarco are not
exactly the sexiest names.
He has a point there.
Oh shut up.
What about Brad Ford?
Just your first name?
No, first name Brad, last name
Ford.
Oooh, I get it.
Like a truck.
Very macho.
Yeah, I like that.
And it's my real name, so I'm
not
ashamed or hiding it or
anything.
What should my name be?
What about your initials?
VD?
Yeah, that's gonna get them
excited and into the theater.
(LAUGHING)
What about Marco?
Just Marco?
Just Marco.
First boy I was ever in
love with was named Marco.
What about me?
You are Horse.
You will always be Horse.
And you are going to be a
star.
But where are we gonna show
it?
Hello.
We would like to speak
to the owner please.
$5 each.
No, we're not here to watch a
movie.
We just wanna talk to the
owner.
Everybody pays to enter.
Okay.
Now can we speak to the owner?
Uh-huh.
Well where is he?
Can you get him for us?
I am the owner.
BRADFORD: Oh.
Uh-huh.
Now what the fuck do you want?
We made a film.
Uh-huh.
BRADFORD: And we would
like to show it here.
Oh really?
What kind of film?
It's a film about what happens
with men when they are with...
You know, what happens when they
go to a place where they can...
It's a gay porn film.
First of all, we don't show
porn here.
We show art films.
Right, and our film is an art
film.
And second, we don't
show no fag movies here.
Oh no, we know that.
We've been here before.
But everyone who goes here is
gay.
And they're all having sex
with each other in the theater.
So if it was an actual gay
film,
a gay art film, on the screen,
they would
be happier and you would do more
business.
Oh really?
You think so?
You know so much about running a
theater.
No, we don't know anything
about running a theater,
but we do know our film is
really good
and the guys here would love it.
You don't get it.
No one's going to come
to see a gay sex film.
No one that comes here is gay.
Really?
They may have sex with each
other
when they're in the theater,
I don't know what goes on in
there.
But they're not gay when they
come in
and they're not got when they
leave.
You understand what I mean?
Not really.
If I show a gay movie here,
then everyone that comes in will
be gay.
Everyone seeing them come
in will know they're gay.
They'll know they're gay when
they leave.
No one will come in.
Excuse me, sir.
If they were to show a gay film
here,
a gay art film, would you come
and see it?
Would you be afraid to come
in, to be seen coming in?
Gay art film?
Real man on man action.
Yeah, hardcore action.
Oh my.
That would be wonderful.
Okay.
You're in luck.
This movie isn't doing any
business
and I need something new.
I'm willing to try anything.
Let me see your movie.
If it's any good, I'll show it
for a week.
If it does better than this one,
I'll keep it on longer.
Fantastic.
What's it called?
A Night at the Everhard Baths.
Let's just call it Everhard.
I think that gets the point
across
and not scare away anyone.
I don't know.
I...
No, shut up.
Yup, that would be fun.
We'll split the box office
90/10.
90 going to...
Me.
We were thinking more like
50/50?
(LAUGHING)
No.
How about 60/40?
There's the door.
Okay, 80/20, how about that?
Okay.
We'll start the movie on Friday.
Really?
This Friday?
Yeah.
I thought you wanted to
watch it first and decide.
It can't be worse than the
crap
we're showing now, can it?
No.
Well there you go then.
See you on Friday.
Leave it.
What are you doing?
Well we paid.
Might as well go in.
(EASY LISTENING ATMOSPHERE
MUSIC)
BRADFORD: Where is everyone?
Well it's 10 AM on a Friday,
so everyone is at work.
Which is where I should be.
BRADFORD: I know, but you
would
think someone would show up.
Isn't it time to open up?
I need my coffee first.
Congratulations.
Thank you.
Anyone come in yet?
No.
Well it's early.
MALCOLM: What is this?
A firing squad?
No, it's our movie that's
playing
and you're our first audience
member.
We hope you enjoy it.
Okay.
Well I should get back to
work.
I'll see you guys later.
This is anticlimactic.
Let's get out of here.
We'll come back after dark.
And it will be packed.
You promise?
Yes.
Come on.
(RHYTHMIC BASS DRUMMING)
Hey.
What's this?
It's our movie.
You should come see it tonight.
I work here.
I don't need to see a
movie about this place.
But if you want me in
your movie, let me know.
I'm just here.
Waiting to be discovered.
(SYNTHPOP ACCOMPANIMENT)
MOVIEGOER: Hey, how are you?
Hey, glad you guys could come
out.
Can you believe it?
What, you had your doubts?
Well frankly, yes.
I'm just kidding with you.
I didn't think anyone
was gonna show up either.
I knew they'd come.
Yes you did.
Thank you.
We better go in.
I saved us three seats in the
back.
Yes, let's go in.
LEXXY: 50?
Shit.
(APPLAUDING)
My big scene is next.
Okay, woohoo!
All right!
(APPLAUDING)
Is he your boyfriend?
Husband actually.
Really?
Yeah.
You don't like to watch him
perform?
No.
I don't mind.
I'm a performer myself, so...
Oh, I see.
But I really wanna be a makeup
artist.
That's what I came to New York
to be.
Well we all come here to be
something.
Here, let me fix your
lipstick.
What's wrong with it?
Nothing.
It could just be a little
softer.
Softer?
I don't wanna be softer.
Okay, well harder then.
How's that?
Okay.
Did you see me?
Yeah.
You were great.
Liar.
Everyone thought you were
great.
Thanks.
Hey.
I love you.
I know.
Fluffy!
(APPLAUDING)
VINNY: Is this it?
Yup.
Seems a little light.
Yeah, well business
hasn't been so great.
Are you kidding?
We've had packed houses every
night.
Not really.
Really?
You haven't been here for
every show.
Do we need to have someone in
here
every night counting heads?
I think we do.
It's true, we were screwed
over with our first movie,
but it played for months
and we made a hell
of a lot more money than
we ever thought we would.
And more importantly, we learned
a lot.
We didn't make the same mistakes
again.
Hey, you can't sleep here.
One.
Two.
Three.
Four.
Five.
Six.
Seven.
Eight.
Nine.
10.
11.
12.
13?
Yup.
(FUNKY ATMOSPHERE MUSIC)
We had a total head count
of 379, so you owe us...
$947.50.
Yeah yeah yeah yeah, I can do
math.
What is it?
Fan mail.
Read it.
Dear Brad.
I saw your latest movie at the
Nob Hill Theater and loved it.
I have been back to see it five
times
and will probably go
back to see it tonight.
I still haven't seen
the ending, wink wink.
I would love to be in one of
your movies,
preferably in a scene with
Horse.
I have enclosed some pictures of
myself.
Oh my.
Let me see.
If you're ever in San
Francisco, give me a call.
A huge fan, Mitch.
Oh yeah.
I could work with that.
Nice.
San Francisco.
How the hell did he see the
movie there?
We only have the one print.
(CHUCKLING)
There's another letter.
From Chicago.
What the hell is going on?
(FUNKY ATMOSPHERE MUSIC)
What do you think you're
doing?
Just doing my job.
I have to get this film to
the lab so they can copy it.
Oh yeah?
Hey wait.
I recognize you.
You're the guy in the movie.
Yes.
Yes I am.
Thank god some of the
movies got bootlegged.
Otherwise we would have nothing.
They may not be the best
quality.
Faded, blurry, et cetera,
but at least it's something.
Crude as the copies are,
they are all we have left.
(SYNTHPOP ATMOSPHERE MUSIC)
BRADFORD VO: We started
making money.
Good money.
More than we ever dreamed of.
We used the money to make more
movies.
More elaborate movies,
with dialogue and plots.
I'm sorry.
I forgot my line.
Cut!
Sorry.
Don't worry about the
lines for right now.
We can dub it all later
like the Italians do.
Oh.
Just say a bunch of numbers
and react.
Great.
Okay, thanks.
Sorry.
Okay, and action!
One.
94.
Three.
Eight.
Oh.
Well sure, I'll try anything
once.
BRADFORD VO: We still
didn't know what we were doing,
but we felt we were on to
something
and the movies got better and
better.
And she paid me with this.
You have the best clients.
I know.
Have you seen her hair in
that dreadful new movie?
Oh yeah, it's terrible.
I know.
Everyone coming into the salon
wants to get a perm now.
I know.
I'm gonna die from the fumes.
Bradford, do you have
something we could...
I got just the thing.
You want some?
Sure.
You have done this before
right?
Of course.
VINNY VO: Cocaine?
Bradford was the worst.
He made fun of me for
buying my car and my furs.
But at least I didn't
spend all my money on coke.
It all went up his nose.
ESTA: Hello boys!
EVERYONE: Hi, Esta!
Oh no, not you too.
What?
Ignore him.
You look delicious.
Thanks.
You boys hungry?
I can whip something up in a
jiffy.
Oh no, we're not very hungry.
No?
Maybe later.
Nobody wants to eat anything
anymore.
You're all gonna waste away to
nothing.
Mom.
Okay, and action!
♪ Higher, higher, higher ♪
(SINGING IN FOREIGN LANGUAGE)
BRADFORD VO: I don't do
drugs.
Drugs just complicate things.
And everything and everyone
in my life is complicated
enough.
I don't need the hassle.
♪ Higher, higher, higher ♪
BRADFORD VO: I don't wanna
talk about drugs anymore.
Could you fix him up a little
bit?
Yeah.
Sit down.
Hey.
You okay, Fluffy?
Don't call me that.
Okay, Fluffy.
You still love me?
Yeah.
Hey.
Everything's gonna be fine.
I promise.
You're all set.
BRADFORD VO: It's so cliche.
Yeah, porn stars died of drug
overdoses.
And that's terrible and sad.
But bank tellers and
housewives and lawyers
and doctors died of drug
overdoses too.
Horse, are you ready?
What are you into?
Anything.
Everything.
Good.
What about you?
You'll find out.
And...
Action.
BRADFORD VO: Porn didn't kill
them.
The drugs did.
VINNY VO: There was a good
turnout for Paul's funeral.
An interesting turnout.
Funerals for young gay
men were a novelty then.
A lot of his Johns showed
up and other hustlers.
And all of us of course.
His family from rural Virginia
had no idea what was going on.
(SOMBER ATMOSPHERE MUSIC)
BRADFORD VO: Paul's overdose
probably saved our lives.
Well most of our lives.
Beth and Matt stopped
doing heroin that night.
Everyone stayed over at my
place.
Even Vinny's mom, Esta, stayed.
And took care of us like we were
a bunch of kids having a
sleepover.
We would have gone to
the Everhard that night.
The night of the fire.
Beth and Matt stayed with me
for a few weeks while they
kicked heroin.
It was rough, but they made it
through.
REPORTER: Fire broke
out early this morning
at the Everhard Baths on 28th
Street.
At least nine men are dead.
Dozens injured.
The seedy Manhattan
bathhouse, which catered
almost exclusively to
homosexual men, was crowded
with as many as a
hundred overnight guests.
VINNY VO: We didn't know
the names of anyone who died.
But we knew them all.
Better than our own
families in a lot of ways.
Looking back now, that was
the beginning of the end.
(MOANING)
BRADFORD VO: I wanted
to do something different.
Something more ambitious.
I mean it's still porn, but
I wanted to say something.
No.
(DRAMATIC SYNTH ATMOSPHERE
MUSIC)
BRADFORD VO: Every day
you live as a gay man,
you risk being teased,
beaten up, or killed.
That is what we live with
every minute of every day.
It's no surprise some
guys can't handle it.
They stay in the closet,
or try to pass as straight,
or even live as straight
with a wife and kids.
But that doesn't change who they
are.
Desire always wins in the end.
I was raised Catholic and was
always
told faggots would go to Hell.
The only way to Heaven
was to become straight.
It was drilled into my head, and
that
screws with you in all
sorts of ways, right?
So I wanted to make a movie
where Heaven is all gay men.
That is the Heaven I want to go
to.
A Heaven where there is no
judgment.
Just love.
That's what I don't get
about the Catholic Church.
Why do they hate gay people so
much?
Why so much hate?
They can have their Heaven.
I'll take mine.
VINNY VO: It wasn't a big hit
back then when it came out.
People didn't get it.
They thought it was weird and
dark.
They get it now.
Still, it did okay.
And we toured the country with
it.
It was in San Francisco
that Horse first got sick.
(TECHNO ATMOSPHERE MUSIC)
It's showtime.
Come on, superstar.
It's time to shake your money
maker.
I don't feel well.
(COUGHING)
Jesus, you're burning up.
I told you I was sick.
We need to get you to a
hospital.
No.
No hospitals.
Okay, well let's take
a cold shower then.
No.
I have to do the show.
BRADFORD: No, fuck the show.
(WATER RUNNING)
(KNOCKING)
Shit.
Let me handle this.
(KNOCKING)
Where is he?
He's late.
He's not feeling well.
I don't care.
He needs to get his ass on that
stage.
I have a full house.
Excuse me!
We have a contract.
Five shows a night.
If you breach that contract,
you get paid nothing.
And I'll sue you for the
advertising we've done.
Oh fuck.
I'll do it.
No you won't.
I'll do it.
What?
They didn't pay to see you.
Yes, but I am in the movie
and I will give them their
money's worth.
Or do you wanna give them all
refunds?
Welcome to the world
famous Nob Hill Cinema.
We have a special guest
performer tonight.
The legendary porn director,
and one of the stars
of The Other Side of Heaven,
Brad Ford.
(APPLAUDING)
Feel free to get as intimate
with Brad as you like,
but if you do whip it
out and whack it off,
be sure to wipe up after
yourself.
Enjoy the show.
(TECHNO TRANCE DANCE MUSIC)
(KNOCKING)
Come in!
It's all there.
VINNY VO: We cut the tour
short after San Francisco.
Bradford decided we needed a
vacation.
So we headed to Fire Island.
We were all gonna send the rest
of the summer there at my place.
I knew Bradford wouldn't last
long.
He was a dancer, remember?
And us theater folk
can never really relax.
After a couple of weeks, the
anxiety
of not working, of maybe
never working again, kicks in.
(FUNKY ATMOSPHERE MUSIC)
I have an idea for another
movie.
Should I start packing?
No.
We'll film it all out here.
Call everybody, tell them
to get out here right now.
Okay.
(LAUGHING)
Hello, Matt.
What brings you in today?
Hey doc, I need a shot of
penicillin.
Why?
What's going on?
I'm heading out to
Fire Island this weekend.
Oh, I see.
Well take your pants down.
Does the shot have to be in my
ass?
Yes, why?
It's my bread and butter.
Don't bruise or mark it up.
Don't worry.
Be right back.
(CAMERA WHIRRING)
Come on Matt, we're ready for
you.
How does my ass look?
It looks fine.
Just fine?
The world doesn't
revolve around your ass.
It doesn't?
(LAUGHING)
Seriously, are you keeping it
clean?
Yeah.
Well I had a little
something just to relax.
Bad boy.
How about you?
Yeah.
Clean and sober.
Except for the whiskey.
It's better than heroin.
No it isn't.
Seriously though.
Does it look okay?
No bruises or zits?
No.
It looks fine, perfect.
Like two scoops of vanilla ice
cream.
Now get to work.
Next victim!
Hi, Horse.
Hi.
You gonna keep your socks on?
I prefer to, if that's okay?
Sure.
It's not up to me.
You look good.
Thanks.
Stand up.
Turn around.
What's this?
I don't know.
It's okay.
I'll cover it up.
(FUNKY ATMOSPHERE MUSIC)
Hello, Matt.
I think I need another
shot of penicillin.
Busy weekend?
Oh yeah.
VINNY VO: Soon after we
returned
to Manhattan, Horse got sick
again.
Really sick.
There was no getting out of
going
to the hospital this time.
Hey.
How's it going?
Not good.
They wouldn't let me see him
today.
What?
They're only letting family
see him now.
That's ridiculous.
We're more family to
him than those rednecks.
Come on, let's go down there.
I can't argue with them
anymore.
He hates hospitals.
And now he's trapped there.
I can't go back.
Did you hear that Everhard is
open again?
What?
How is that possible?
I don't know, but it's true.
You know, Horse and I met there.
I know.
I was there, remember?
Let's go.
(FUNKY ATMOSPHERE MUSIC)
You hear about that gay
cancer?
I'm sick of hearing about it.
Scares the hell out of me.
I mean aren't you scared?
I heard you get it from sex.
Shut up.
Just fuck me.
So you're giving up sex?
No.
Well maybe.
Sex is my life.
I've given up everything else.
It's all I have left.
If I give up sex, I might as
well be dead.
So if too much sex is going
to kill me, well that's that.
VINNY VO: Horse
remained in the hospital
all through the holidays.
Vinny!
It was on New Year's Eve
that we got the call.
(PHONE RINGING)
(FUNKY ATMOSPHERE MUSIC)
EVERYONE: 10!
Nine!
Eight!
Seven!
Six!
Five!
Four!
Three!
Two!
One!
Happy New Year!
Welcome to the eighties!
(CHEERING)
(FIREWORKS EXPLODING)
(URINATING)
(FLUSHING)
(KNOCKING)
Do you want some?
Sure.
What are you doing?
BRADFORD: I'm editing the
movie.
You don't have to do that.
I mean...
Not right now.
Yeah, I need to finish it.
Okay.
I'll start cleaning up.
No, leave it.
I'll clean up later.
I just need some time alone
right now.
I need to finish this.
I'll call you when I'm ready.
When I'm done.
You understand don't you?
Yeah.
Yeah, I understand.
I love you, Vinny.
I love you too.
VINNY VO: I don't know if
he ever finished that movie.
I guess we'll never know.
I'm not gonna talk about it.
I'm done talking.
STAGE HAND: Vinny,
there's a phone call for you!
Hello?
(DRAMATIC SYNTHPOP ATMOSPHERE
MUSIC)
VINNY VO: Bradford's parents
had beaten me to his apartment.
They destroyed all the movies.
BRADFORD: Dear Vinny.
I finished the movie.
I think it's our best film.
I hope it is anyway.
I want to go out on a high note.
I hate to leave you like this,
but I don't want to go
through what Horse did.
He was the love my life.
And I never got a chance to tell
him that.
Tell everyone I said goodbye.
I love you.
Bradford.
VINNY VO: I'll never forgive
Bradford.
Not just for killing himself,
but for erasing all of us with
him.
I tried to make movies without
Bradford.
Using the latest in video
technology.
But it wasn't the same.
My heart wasn't in it.
What are you doing?
I don't know.
I'm gonna cum.
What?
I'm gonna cum.
(MOANING)
Did you get it?
Yeah.
Good, this water's freezing.
(FUNKY ATMOSPHERE MUSIC)
Hello?
Hello?
Are you open?
Oh hello, Mrs. DeMarco.
Yes, we're open.
Esta please.
Where is everyone?
I had to let everyone go.
Business has been deader than
dead.
I don't know why I bother coming
in.
Gives me something to do I
guess.
So you can squeeze me in.
Yes.
I do believe I can squeeze you
in.
Are you sure you want to get
your hair cut by an AIDS faggot?
I was thinking of
giving my hair feathers.
You know, like that girl on TV?
What do you think?
How about some highlights too?
That would be delicious.
Another funeral?
Yeah.
Richard.
I feel like I live in a suit
now.
I know.
Someone should just
design leather suits.
That way you could go right
from the funerals to the bars.
Not a bad idea.
Vinny.
There you are.
I was looking for you
everywhere.
You were?
(CHUCKLING)
Well I'm here.
You can always find me here.
How are you?
Not so good.
I was wondering if you might
be able to help me out here.
You know, with a few bucks.
What happened to the
money I gave you last time?
It's not the same.
I'm not the same.
I'm clean now.
I want to go to community
college
and study computer science.
What?
I'm telling you the truth.
I want to clean up my life.
It's okay.
I believe you.
No.
You don't.
VINNY: Does it matter?
Yes, it odes.
I'm not a complete waste of
space.
I need you to believe that.
How much money do you need?
5,000.
Let me get my checkbook.
VINNY VO: Matt did end up
getting
his degree in computer science
and getting
a job doing something with
computers.
I don't know anything about
them,
so I can't tell you more about
it.
He even paid me back with
interest.
He still did some porn
occasionally,
but more for the attention than
the money.
Then, on the fifth anniversary
of his getting clean, he decided
to celebrate by shooting up one
last time.
Everyone thought it was suicide.
But I prefer to think it
was just a stupid accident.
The Everhard was shut
down in April of 1986
by Mayor Ed Koch with the help
of some narrow-minded,
self-loathing gays.
They thought they would
stop the spread of AIDS.
They didn't.
All they did was force us
all back in the closet.
Lexxy's theater stayed open
longer than
the other porn theaters because
Lexxy
owned the building and lived
there.
But eventually, Mayor Giuliani
got to her.
Thank God some of the
movies got bootlegged.
Otherwise we would have nothing.
They may not be the best
quality.
Blurry, faded.
But crude as the copies are,
they are all we have left.
Did you ever think
in your wildest dreams
that your films would be having
a retrospective at the
Museum of Modern Art?
(CHUCKLING)
No.
I can't believe it.
Bradford would have never
believed it.
I don't know why it's happening.
But I am grateful.
ESTA: Vincenzo, could you
come here
for a moment please?
Sorry.
My mother.
Will you mother be going
to the world premiere
of the restoration of Everhard
tonight?
Of course.
I wouldn't miss it for the
world.
(LAUGHING)
Well enjoy the premiere
and have a wonderful time
tonight.
(FUNKY ATMOSPHERE MUSIC)
(HEAVY TECHNO ATMOSPHERE MUSIC)
(SINGING IN FOREIGN LANGUAGE)