Educational Media Reviews Online

In this documentary, twenty five men talk candidly about their penises in relation to a wide array of topics including size, masturbation, circumcision, aging and disability. The interviews are presented very simply, with each subject sitting in a chair talking to the camera. Some of the men are totally naked during the interview, while others are clothed or are presented only from the waist up, depending upon their level of comfort. The program is divided into various sections, each loosely dealing with a particular subject focus. Some of the most amusing segments included in the video are presentations of lists of euphemisms for the penis, condoms and masturbation.

One strong aspect of the documentary is that it includes a wide variety of subjects. A paraplegic talks frankly about his sexual abilities and his own psychological relation to his penis. An adult film star reveals some of the concerns and difficulties that can occur during a film shoot. A WWII veteran discusses issues surrounding aging and a loss of libido. A young medical student talks about dealing with testicular cancer. One female-to-male and one male-to-female subject talk about various issues facing the transgendered person. The diverse physical and ethnic range of interviewees gives viewers a wide range of first-hand experiences.

This program was originally presented as a part of HBO’s America Undercover series. It is an extremely informative and frank discussion of male sexuality. The video is appropriate for mature audiences due to the nudity and frank language it contains. Private Dicks is recommended for educational libraries; especially those connected with medical institutions or organizations that focus upon issues of human sexuality, and is especially recommended for sociology students and those who work with men who are struggling with issues surrounding sexuality.

Awards

• 2002 Outstanding Achievement Award Winner, Society for the Scientific Study of Sexuality