Golden Age of Porn

Golden Age of Porn

Andy Warhol, a notable figure during the Golden Age of Porn

The Golden Age of Porn, also known as the "porno chic" era, refers to a period in the history of adult films, roughly from the late 1960s to the early 1980s, when pornographic films gained significant mainstream attention and achieved a degree of cultural legitimacy. This era is characterized by the production of high-budget films, the involvement of notable directors and actors, and the emergence of pornography as a subject of public discourse.

Historical Context

The Golden Age of Porn began in the late 1960s, a time marked by the sexual revolution and changing social attitudes towards sexuality. The United States Supreme Court's decision in Roth v. United States (1957) and Miller v. California (1973) played a crucial role in shaping the legal landscape for adult films, leading to a more permissive environment for their production and distribution.

Notable Films and Directors

During this period, several adult films achieved mainstream success and critical acclaim. Notable films include Deep Throat (1972), Behind the Green Door (1972), and The Devil in Miss Jones (1973). These films were often shown in mainstream theaters and attracted audiences beyond the typical adult film demographic.

Prominent directors such as Gerard Damiano, Radley Metzger, and Lasse Braun were instrumental in elevating the artistic quality of adult films. Their work often featured elaborate plots, high production values, and innovative cinematography.

Cultural Impact

The Golden Age of Porn had a significant impact on popular culture and the film industry. It challenged societal norms and sparked debates about censorship, freedom of expression, and the role of sexuality in media. The era also saw the rise of porn stars as cultural icons, with figures like Linda Lovelace and Marilyn Chambers gaining widespread recognition.

Decline and Legacy

The Golden Age of Porn began to decline in the early 1980s due to several factors, including the AIDS epidemic, increased video piracy, and the rise of home video technology, which shifted the consumption of adult films from theaters to private settings. Despite its decline, the era left a lasting legacy on the adult film industry and continues to influence contemporary discussions about sexuality and media.

Related Pages

• Pornography
• Sexual revolution
• Censorship
• Freedom of expression