Scarlet Road 2011
Distributed by Women Make Movies, 115 W. 29th Street, Suite 1200,New York, NY, 10001; 212-925-0606
Produced by Pat Fiske
Directed by Catherine Scott
DVD, color, 70 min.
General Adult
Health Sciences, Disabilities
Date Entered: 07/23/2013
Reviewed by Kay Hogan Smith, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Lister Hill Library of the Health SciencesIt is said that infants will not thrive and may even die without caring human touch. This need for loving touch continues throughout our lives and is often expressed in adulthood through sexual expression. However, societal biases often present obstacles to fulfilling this basic human need for people with disabilities. This issue was examined in the popular American feature film The Sessions (2012), and here as well in this Australian documentary.
Focusing on a dedicated, kindhearted and enthusiastic Sydney sex worker, Rachel, Scarlet Road shatters the stereotypes of both sex workers and people with disabilities. Indeed, much of the film is devoted to describing the alliance between these marginalized segments of society, united as the advocacy group, “Touching Base.” Portrayed with humor, frankness and compassion, Scarlet Road should be recommended viewing for any group that works with people with disabilities. Social sciences classes and library collections will also find this a worthy addition.