Porn-Based Drama 'Starlet' Opens in L.A. and N.Y. Today

Porn-Based Drama 'Starlet' Opens in L.A. and N.Y. Today

LOS ANGELES — "Starlet," an indie-drama about the unlikely friendship that develops between an elderly widow and an aimless young porn starlet, is set to open Friday in Los Angeles and New York.

Sean Baker ("Prince of Broadway") directed the Music Box Films production from a script he co-wrote with associate producer Chris Bergoch, a collaborator on Baker's 2010 MTV comedy series "Warren the Ape."

Besedka Johnson, an 80-something newcomer, stars as the widow Sadie. Dree Hemingway — daughter of Mariel, great-great granddaughter of Ernest — plays newbie porn star Jane.

While the film’s plot doesn't center on Jane's X-rated career, it does include a controversial scene set at a hardcore porn shoot with adult film stars Manuel Ferrara and Zoe Voss (body-doubling for Hemingway) engaging in graphic, non-simulated sex.

In addition to Ferrara and Voss, "Starlet" includes cameos from porn stars Asa Akira, Lily LaBeau, Jessi Palmer, Kaci Starr, Tracey Sweet and Cassandra Nix. Former gonzo queen and "Girlvert" star Ashley Blue served as a consultant on the film.

"Starlet" is in select L.A. and N.Y. theaters now. For show times and locations, click here. To see the film's trailer, visit the Music Box Films YouTube page and/or website.

An XBIZ exclusive interview with director Sean Baker and screenwriter Chris Bergoch can be read here.

Copyright © 2026 Adnet Media. All Rights Reserved. XBIZ is a trademark of Adnet Media.
Reproduction in whole or in part in any form or medium without express written permission is prohibited.

More News

Lucy Mochi Makes Her Jules Jordan Debut

Lucy Mochi has made her debut for Jules Jordan Video alongside Hollywood Cash.

Chanel Chance, Derek Kage Star in Latest From TransSensual

Chanel Chance stars with multi-XMAs winner Derek Kage in the latest release from Mile High Media studio imprint TransSensual, titled "After Hours 2."

Michael Vegas on Life as the Ringmaster of His Own Creative Circus

Even on non-shoot days, Michael Vegas tends to be immersed in the innumerable small tasks of production: calling agents, rustling up props and costumes, planning upcoming shoots.

Ariel Demure Leads Latest From Transfixed

Reigning and two-time XMAs Trans Performer of the Year Ariel Demure stars with Jewelz Blu and Little Puck in the latest release from Transfixed, titled "A Very Open House."

Krystal Sparks Fronts Latest From MYLF

Krystal Sparks stars with Quinton James and Enzo East in the latest release from the MYLF series Mom Drips, titled "The Creampie Cult."

Angel Youngs Crowned Newest 'Vixen Angel'

Vixen Media Group (VMG) has named Angel Youngs as its newest Vixen Angel.

MAD Creativity on Direction, Teamwork, and Life Behind the Lens

Longtime industry photographer and rising director Mad Creativity came up with his moniker early in his career, while searching for something that would capture both sides of his creative life as a photographer and a freelance graphic designer.

Alana Rose Makes Her Brazzers Debut

Alana Rose has made her Brazzers debut alongside Juniper Ren, Ana Khalifa, and JMac, in “Sluts Up!”

Kiki Mink Makes Her WIFEY Debut

Kiki Mink has made her debut for Vixen Media Group studio imprint WIFEY alongside her partner, Cindy, and multi-XMAs winner Isiah Maxwell.

Pixie Kinzi Performs 1st Anal, Headlines LeWood's 6th 'Anal Behavior'

Pixie Kinzi performs her first anal scene and toplines director/performer duo LeWood’s (Francesca Le and Mark Wood) sixth volume of “Anal Behavior,” from Evil Angel.

Show More