21 reviews
Quality Adult Drama
This certainly isn't a comedy or a comedy drama. It's a powerful drama that deals with a serious issue in an intelligent manner and it's very good.
Hayley Squires is brilliant in the lead role and Rupert Everett is pure class.
Top quality production values with good direction and an excellent script.
Once the characters were established I was gripped and watched all four episodes in one evening.
If you like quality drama, you'll like this. Don't be put off with it being set in the porn industry as it is not at all sleazy.
Hayley Squires is brilliant in the lead role and Rupert Everett is pure class.
Top quality production values with good direction and an excellent script.
Once the characters were established I was gripped and watched all four episodes in one evening.
If you like quality drama, you'll like this. Don't be put off with it being set in the porn industry as it is not at all sleazy.
- dgjones-62258
- Mar 28, 2021
- Permalink
Deconstructing Jolene
Summary
Brief English miniseries that addresses with intelligence, sobriety and sensitivity the current small porn industry from the gaze of one of its stars, through the crisis that sooner or later the dark areas of that apparently friendly business will generate in the balance between his life pro like Jolene Dollar and the real Hayley Burrows.
Review:
Hayley Burrows is a woman who reasonably reconciles her work as a star of a small porn production company (with the stage name Jolene Dollar) with the role of her mother (she has a teenage daughter and a child) and her wife. But the debut of a young porn actress in the production company where she works will become the seed of a personal crisis.
The entire beginning of the series scripted by Lucy Kirkwood paints, even with a comedy tone, that idyllic balance between the two worlds of Hayley, that of the porn celebrity and the domestic one, with a husband (Joe Dempsey, the blacksmith of Game of Thrones) who acts as the community manager of the diva's individual porn ventures.
But the appearance of the young Amy (Siena Kelly) in a film will trigger a series of rethinking for Hayley about personal and work issues that she until now had kept in a territory between denial and unconsciousness.
What happens to Amy puts questions that have to do with consent, abuse and health in the mirror, unleashing a deep crisis in the protagonist, an awareness about the cracks and shadows of the apparently friendly work environment of the small porn producer (and not so independent) led by the flamboyant Carroll (Rupert Everett).
Haley suffers a kind of deconstruction of her character Jolene of hers that will have profound repercussions on her personal life and will illuminate her own personal history with a new light. She will contribute to unleash the crisis the meeting with a deputy (great role and performance of Kerry Godliman, whom we already saw in After Life).
Hayley Squires, in a remarkable performance, is the one who puts the body and traces the incredible physical and emotional journey between Jolene, the porn doll with stilettos and not so young anymore, and the Hayley who, from her domestic placidity, suffers the unraveling of his personal life.
In short, Adult Material soberly addresses the current small porn industry from the point of view of one of its stars and the crisis that sooner or later generates its dark areas.
Brief English miniseries that addresses with intelligence, sobriety and sensitivity the current small porn industry from the gaze of one of its stars, through the crisis that sooner or later the dark areas of that apparently friendly business will generate in the balance between his life pro like Jolene Dollar and the real Hayley Burrows.
Review:
Hayley Burrows is a woman who reasonably reconciles her work as a star of a small porn production company (with the stage name Jolene Dollar) with the role of her mother (she has a teenage daughter and a child) and her wife. But the debut of a young porn actress in the production company where she works will become the seed of a personal crisis.
The entire beginning of the series scripted by Lucy Kirkwood paints, even with a comedy tone, that idyllic balance between the two worlds of Hayley, that of the porn celebrity and the domestic one, with a husband (Joe Dempsey, the blacksmith of Game of Thrones) who acts as the community manager of the diva's individual porn ventures.
But the appearance of the young Amy (Siena Kelly) in a film will trigger a series of rethinking for Hayley about personal and work issues that she until now had kept in a territory between denial and unconsciousness.
What happens to Amy puts questions that have to do with consent, abuse and health in the mirror, unleashing a deep crisis in the protagonist, an awareness about the cracks and shadows of the apparently friendly work environment of the small porn producer (and not so independent) led by the flamboyant Carroll (Rupert Everett).
Haley suffers a kind of deconstruction of her character Jolene of hers that will have profound repercussions on her personal life and will illuminate her own personal history with a new light. She will contribute to unleash the crisis the meeting with a deputy (great role and performance of Kerry Godliman, whom we already saw in After Life).
Hayley Squires, in a remarkable performance, is the one who puts the body and traces the incredible physical and emotional journey between Jolene, the porn doll with stilettos and not so young anymore, and the Hayley who, from her domestic placidity, suffers the unraveling of his personal life.
In short, Adult Material soberly addresses the current small porn industry from the point of view of one of its stars and the crisis that sooner or later generates its dark areas.
The dark side of porn
I've watched a few documentaries over the years on the porn industry. And I am always amazed at the number of young girls desperate to be porn stars. They seem to think it's very glamorous and an easy quick way to make money. In reality whilst it may start out that way, many end up on drink or drug's and after 10 years in the business nobody wants you. And that is in a nutshell what Adult Material is about.
This show goes to great lengths to show how the men in the business do treat women like pieces of meat for their own sexual gratification.
The performances are solid throughout in particular Haley and Rupert Everet.
Well worth a watch 7/10
- peterrichboy
- Dec 8, 2020
- Permalink
Something Different
The show starts out as a raunchy-esque comedy but quickly evolves into something wonderful and inspiring. Great acting and writing.
- the_nephilim71
- Oct 24, 2020
- Permalink
I'll buy you for a dollar.
I came across (pun intended) this series as another entry on the Guardian's top TV of 2020 list. It's a mini-series, of just four parts, with incredible performances, if perhaps one that suffers a little from too much going on.
Seasoned adult film star Jolene Dollar (Hayley Squires) meets new girl Amy (Siena Kelly) on her first day on a shoot. Against her nagging concerns, Jolene leaves the set once she has finished her scenes, after which something happens with Amy that has a profound affect on her mental state. Her guilt, and the reaction that Amy has at an industry party, lead Jolene on a crusade against producer Carroll Quinn (Rupert Everett). Ostracised from working, and with her life falling apart, dark moments from her past continue to destroy her present.
IMDB classifies "Adult Material" as a comedy drama - which is fair, because there are funny moments in it. That doesn't, though, come close to explaining the depths of grim stories and behaviour that make up the cultures of abuse, in one form or another, that the show goes into. There is very little in the way of titillation, the opening scenes establish that shooting the films are much like any other job, chatting about your weekend plans, waiting around. From there issues of rape, both in and out of relationships, alcoholism, drug abuse, revenge porn and prostitution are explored. I wonder if perhaps it hits a little too many of them a little too shallowly for it's own good sometimes. I also think that the character of Amy has a little too much going on, or it doesn't perhaps explain her well enough. I'm still not sure know if she's calculating, damaged or genuinely psychopathic. (Perhaps she's just all three).
You cannot argue with the performances though. The quality of Rupert Everett, Phil Daniels and Kerry Godliman have been on show for years, in everything they've done. Alex Jarrett is great, as Jolene's oldest daughter, who has a lot to go through herself. But Hayley Squires is revelatory. (Another reason, if there wasn't enough already, for anticipating Ben Wheatley's new horror film "In The Earth").
Seasoned adult film star Jolene Dollar (Hayley Squires) meets new girl Amy (Siena Kelly) on her first day on a shoot. Against her nagging concerns, Jolene leaves the set once she has finished her scenes, after which something happens with Amy that has a profound affect on her mental state. Her guilt, and the reaction that Amy has at an industry party, lead Jolene on a crusade against producer Carroll Quinn (Rupert Everett). Ostracised from working, and with her life falling apart, dark moments from her past continue to destroy her present.
IMDB classifies "Adult Material" as a comedy drama - which is fair, because there are funny moments in it. That doesn't, though, come close to explaining the depths of grim stories and behaviour that make up the cultures of abuse, in one form or another, that the show goes into. There is very little in the way of titillation, the opening scenes establish that shooting the films are much like any other job, chatting about your weekend plans, waiting around. From there issues of rape, both in and out of relationships, alcoholism, drug abuse, revenge porn and prostitution are explored. I wonder if perhaps it hits a little too many of them a little too shallowly for it's own good sometimes. I also think that the character of Amy has a little too much going on, or it doesn't perhaps explain her well enough. I'm still not sure know if she's calculating, damaged or genuinely psychopathic. (Perhaps she's just all three).
You cannot argue with the performances though. The quality of Rupert Everett, Phil Daniels and Kerry Godliman have been on show for years, in everything they've done. Alex Jarrett is great, as Jolene's oldest daughter, who has a lot to go through herself. But Hayley Squires is revelatory. (Another reason, if there wasn't enough already, for anticipating Ben Wheatley's new horror film "In The Earth").
- southdavid
- Mar 28, 2021
- Permalink
I started watching one episode, and then I couldn't stop!
Great acting, writing and directing. I watched one episode and ended up binge watching all four episodes in one sitting. Love the ending too.
- plasmatika
- Nov 9, 2020
- Permalink
Moral sentiment usurps supposed controversial subject
The acting is fantastic but the subject matter belies an obnoxious and overwrought desire by the writers to inundate the viewer with their own moral sentiments. If you're like me, you were hoping for a 'slice of life' drama about a subculture rarely discussed.
Instead, the subject matter is used for a flimsy pretense to preach the same Twitter canards that one expects of Netflix. This show isn't the worst way to waste an afternoon but you won't leave being impressed or surprised. It's half shock imagery, half banal progressive lecture with an edgy veneer. That said, if you can get past the assumption that, as a viewer, you're a susceptible vessel for trite cliches - the show provides a lot of memorable and interesting scenes not seen in comparable mini-series.
Instead, the subject matter is used for a flimsy pretense to preach the same Twitter canards that one expects of Netflix. This show isn't the worst way to waste an afternoon but you won't leave being impressed or surprised. It's half shock imagery, half banal progressive lecture with an edgy veneer. That said, if you can get past the assumption that, as a viewer, you're a susceptible vessel for trite cliches - the show provides a lot of memorable and interesting scenes not seen in comparable mini-series.
- privatejoe-73661
- Feb 2, 2023
- Permalink
British TV falls under the streaming gods
Lead actress....what a performance. Director....original. Edited...like it's 2023. Why is this not understood, celebrated. " I may destroy you" bold, brave...this....well the other side of the mirror. Bravo to all involved.
- bobfilmman
- Nov 11, 2020
- Permalink
This is no comedy....
Brave, real but not gratuitous
I was a little nervous to watch this considering the theme. However, whilst you are always certain that this is about the porn industry, it doesn't show things for the sake of it. Brilliantly acted by all concerned but especially Hayley and Rupert. Loved it.
- amandaandjasper
- Oct 23, 2020
- Permalink
Entertaining, modern drama!
In the world we live in, pornogrpahy is everywhere. This show gives an insight into the 'darker' side of the adult entertainment industry and the troubles actors/actresses face in every day life. Theres also a few humourous moments which keeps things light.
I would definitely recommend this series!
- ChooChooLLAMA
- Oct 11, 2020
- Permalink
Flop
The stated storyline: "A woman's life working in the adult film industry spans from its seedy beginnings to a highly successful enterprise." What's that all about then? We don't get to see any of that.
This drama seems to take a rather cliched view of the adult entertainment industry and is much less informative than the many documentaries on the subject. Watch a few of those if you want to understand the highs and lows of the industry.
Not only does this drama fail to inform, it fails as a drama. The tone feels wrong, as if someone thought this material was too heavy and had to be leavened with comedy characters, e.g. Phil Daniels as Dave. In fact, most of the characters seem to have a comedic tinge to them, as if they daren't risk being taken too seriously.
If this had lived up to the stated storyline and had adopted a different tone, it might have told a worthwhile story in an entertaining way. Shame it didn't.
This drama seems to take a rather cliched view of the adult entertainment industry and is much less informative than the many documentaries on the subject. Watch a few of those if you want to understand the highs and lows of the industry.
Not only does this drama fail to inform, it fails as a drama. The tone feels wrong, as if someone thought this material was too heavy and had to be leavened with comedy characters, e.g. Phil Daniels as Dave. In fact, most of the characters seem to have a comedic tinge to them, as if they daren't risk being taken too seriously.
If this had lived up to the stated storyline and had adopted a different tone, it might have told a worthwhile story in an entertaining way. Shame it didn't.
Loved it
Channel 4 advertised this as a comedy, all trailers and adverts were funny. Etc. Fantatsic series but not at all funny.
- rockandroll-36204
- Oct 15, 2020
- Permalink
Amazing material
Easily one of the best series of the year. If you're looking for a well-written, thought-provoking drama with incredible performances, this show is a must watch.
- somethingreal81
- Oct 12, 2020
- Permalink
Raw, Emotional, and Provocative
Longtime porn star "Hailey" surprises viewers with this raw account of how the adult film industry turns lives upside down. When Hailey, also known as "Jo Jo", experiences a violation of a new performer's consent on-set, she takes it upon herself to guide the mentor the new performer -- only to find that she doesn't know this deceptive, new, young performer at all. In this ultimately harrowing account of her personal life, Hailey must choose between her online persona "Jo Jo" and the privacy of her own family.
Viewers will find the provocative, raw, and emotional dialogue intriguing, questioning what sexual connections mean today in a world dominated by social media, plastic, and beauty filters. Those with experience or knowledge of what happens on pornographic sets may find the script relatable and especially poignant through the juxtaposed dialogue off-set during shoots within the first episode.
Altogether, the raw, provocative, and poignant account of Hailey "Jo Jo"'s descent from stardom to numbness showcases our growing need for validation and companionship above intimacy and sexual connection. Adult Material asks the tough questions of what it means today to live as an openly sexual being, consent, ageism, and most importantly, what connection even means in today's digital age.
Viewers will find the provocative, raw, and emotional dialogue intriguing, questioning what sexual connections mean today in a world dominated by social media, plastic, and beauty filters. Those with experience or knowledge of what happens on pornographic sets may find the script relatable and especially poignant through the juxtaposed dialogue off-set during shoots within the first episode.
Altogether, the raw, provocative, and poignant account of Hailey "Jo Jo"'s descent from stardom to numbness showcases our growing need for validation and companionship above intimacy and sexual connection. Adult Material asks the tough questions of what it means today to live as an openly sexual being, consent, ageism, and most importantly, what connection even means in today's digital age.
A different take
Have to say, I found it surprisingly good and honest. It wasn't feel good, but felt raw and true to what probably happens to make people go into this industry. Funny and sad in equal measures.
- cdool-57635
- Oct 22, 2021
- Permalink
Unexpected
It was uber good, acting shooting and everything. I have never ever guess the end like this
- meeltem_bora
- Nov 17, 2020
- Permalink
Such a strange, but strong storyline
I absolutely loved it, the acting was very good, the storyline intriguing and providing food for thought.
I didn't read the reviews before I watched it, I'm surprised it has such a low score, it should definitely be an 8.
I didn't read the reviews before I watched it, I'm surprised it has such a low score, it should definitely be an 8.
- anamariajobs
- Jan 9, 2022
- Permalink
Complex and dark. Loved it.
Something really different with fantastic acting, complex characters and a thought provoking storyline. I really liked the fact that none of the characters were just good or bad. They all had their good points and insecurities. We'll perhaps not Tom. Also nice to have a storyline that doesn't try to preach or moralise.
- adam-morris-640-374044
- Nov 16, 2021
- Permalink
Brilliant drama
Really bold and interesting storyline that really isnt a look into the adult film industry. More about sexual consent, behaviour, the effects of early life and addiction.
Hayley Squires is such a brilliant actress and I hope she gets more great projects like this. Rupert Everett is also fantastic, he often is when given a good script.
Well worth a watch.
Hayley Squires is such a brilliant actress and I hope she gets more great projects like this. Rupert Everett is also fantastic, he often is when given a good script.
Well worth a watch.
Surprising