Buying Sex

Timely and wise, this important documentary about the state of prostitution laws in Canada is a revelation. Those laws, forged in the 19th century, are now being challenged by both pro-prostitution and anti-prostitution forces, with no evident consensus about which way forward is either best or likely. The film’s examination of the sex industry in Sweden and New Zealand sheds further light on the situation at home. Buying Sex carefully guides the viewer through a wide spectrum of disagreement, exploring the many points of view in this age-old yet contemporary debate. Articulate and impassioned formerly prostituted women and sex workers make their claims for and against the proposed changes, while policy-makers, lawyers and even male consumers also offer insight and commentary on this vexing issue. Respecting the differences of ideology and opinion as Canada works its way toward an uneasy consensus, the film challenges us to think for ourselves and offers a gripping and invaluable account of just what is at stake for all of us.