Circus of Books

(2019)

Circus of Books is a 2019 documentary film that offers a unique perspective into an untold chapter of queer history. Directed by Rachel Mason, the film tells the story of her parents, Karen and Barry Mason, and their journey as they become fully immersed in the LGBT community during the 1970s and 1980s. It all started when the Masons answered an ad in the Los Angeles Times placed by Larry Flynt, who was seeking distributors for Hustler Magazine. What was originally intended to be a small venture quickly spiraled into something much larger, as the Masons took over a local store called Circus of Books.

Over the years, Circus of Books became the largest distributor of gay porn in the United States, serving as a hub for the LGBT community. However, the Masons led a double life, as they struggled to maintain a balance between their role as parents and their involvement in a culture that was not widely accepted at the time. They faced numerous challenges, including a federal obscenity prosecution that could have landed them in jail.

Additionally, Circus of Books became a place of refuge for the LGBT community during the height of the AIDS crisis, providing much-needed support and resources. Through the lens of Rachel Mason, an artist, filmmaker, and musician, the film delves into her parents' fascinating journey, shedding light on an often overlooked part of queer history.