Circus of Books (2019)

In the tumultuous year of 1976, Karen and Barry Mason, a couple grappling with financial hardship, find an unexpected lifeline in an advertisement in the Los Angeles Times. The flamboyantly controversial Larry Flynt is in search of distributors for Hustler Magazine. This seemingly brief detour morphs into a profound journey, as the Masons find themselves entrenched in the vibrant yet misunderstood world of the LGBT community, taking the reins of a local store, Circus of Books. Fast forward a decade, and the unassuming pair evolve into the largest distributors of gay pornography in America. However, their story isn't just about business; it's a tale of dual lives, as they juggle the demands of parenthood during an era when LGBT culture faced widespread disapproval. The Masons confront a cavalcade of trials, including the looming threat of imprisonment due to a federal obscenity charge and the transformation of their store into a sanctuary amidst the devastating AIDS epidemic. Circus of Books unveils a hidden segment of queer history, told poignantly through the eyes of the owners' daughter, Rachel Mason. An accomplished artist, filmmaker, and musician, Rachel offers an intimate portrait of her parents' extraordinary journey, painting a vivid image of resilience, acceptance, and the power of family.

Circus of Books is a documentary movie featuring Rachel Mason.

Circus of Books is currently streaming on Netflix and Netflix basic with Ads.