SILVER GIRLS

Directed by Saara Alia Waasner
2010, 74 Minutes
Purchase: $310 | Classroom rental: $125


An insightful portrait of three women, age 50 and over, earning a living as prostitutes in Berlin, Silver Girls offers a thought-provoking deconstruction of social mores around sex, sexuality, female independence and empowerment, and growing old.

Intimate and artfully shot, Silver Girls introduces us to Paula, 50, Karolina, 64, and Christel, 58. "We accompany the gentlemen to bed... and beyond," says Paula, in a whispery voice. She runs a quaint bordello with several younger women. Karolina, with her sophisticated air and intimidating stature, works as a dominatrix, and does not suffer from a lack of clients. Lastly, there's Christel, who we learn was pre-orgasmic until the age of 49. Christel works out of her own apartment, which she shares with her longtime boyfriend.

For these sublime, mature, confident women, this job provides an opportunity for self-affirmation, liberation, escape from middle class routine, and of course, financial independence.

Subjects & Collections

Reviews

“ Highly recommended . A nonjudgmental profile of three older professional sex workers in Berlin. Aside from interviews [director] Saara Alia Waasner – displaying an easy rapport with her subjects- films the women at home, with family members, and at work”. - Video Librarian

“Highly recommended . A fascinating portrayal of a seldom-seen side of the sex industry – the ‘senior’ sector. Likely to spark discussion in college courses in human sexuality, gender studies, business, cultural studies, and sociology (among others), Silver Girls would also appeal to general audiences and would provide a contrast to other documentaries on prostitution.” - Educational Media Reviews Online