Although much porn lacks imagination, in the past few years certain studios and filmmakers have blurred the lines, whether it’s including extremely explicit content in a ‘normal’ movie, or trying to give porn a more artisitc or filmic edge. The reason we’ve decided to include Underwater here (you can watch it below) is because it’s rather unusual in that it was actually a 90-minute hardcore porn movie from 2015 called Swimboy. However, to become the short film Underwater it’s had most of the porn removed, instead concentrating on the story. (Although you’ll be pleased to hear not all the porn was removed, so it still has some very NSFW moments).
Initially that might seem pointless and/or extremely boring, but it actually reveals a decent (though not spectacular) short film underneath all the sex, which genuinely values character and the emotional arc of the story. Likewise, it’s not afraid to go to some dark places as its main character deals with depression. the death of a parent, peer pressure, bullying and rejection. It’s certainly not what you’d expect from porn – not least because it doesn’t feel the need to tack on a typical happy ending – and actually works surprisingly well.
You won’t be surprised to hear though that as its filled with porn stars, the acting leaves much to be desired, and it’s far from the greatest short film ever made. It is interesting though just to see what porn can be with a little thought.
Here’s the synopsis: ‘Battling with his own inner demons, Jonathan, played by Australian talent Jaxon Radoc, is taken to an elite swimming academy deep in the English countryside by his soon to be step-mother, kept away from her upcoming wedding to his father. At the academy, Jonathan struggles to find his place among the group, he may be a top athlete in his field, but when it comes to the small world of Lakeside, swimming, sex and chauvinism combine to create something explosive and the potential for something very dangerous. Lightfarms debut short movie brings an all-star cast from the adult industry and drops them into the mainstream movie world, providing real chemistry between the actors, with real tension and drama like none other. The rites-of-passage all young gay men face and how they adapt to new surroundings and a burgeoning sexuality is fully explored here. With director Alejandro Sesma at the helm, and producer Steven Chinnery working closely together, the movie gives an authenticity rarely seen in such movies.’
If you know a short film we ought to be posting, tell us by getting in touch via our contact page. And check out more gay short films and web series here.
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