Circus of Books

This documentary explores the hidden world of the adult bookstore, Circus of Books, in West Hollywood, California. Owned by a seemingly ordinary couple who were devout members of a strict religious community, the store became a central hub for the LGBTQ+ community and a significant part of gay culture history. The film delves into the family's complex relationship with their business and their personal lives.

Circus of Books was widely praised for its unique and intimate portrayal of a family navigating a hidden life and its contribution to documenting LGBTQ+ history. Critics lauded its emotional depth, humor, and the bravery of the filmmaker in confronting her family's secrets.

• A fascinating and heartwarming look at a hidden side of family and community.
• Offers a poignant and often humorous perspective on LGBTQ+ history through the lens of a family-run business.
• Praised for its candidness and the significant cultural importance of its subject matter.

Google audience: Audience reviews highlight the film's emotional impact, finding it both moving and eye-opening. Many appreciated the exploration of untold stories and the complex family dynamics presented.

Nominated for Outstanding Documentary Feature at the GLAAD Media Awards.

The bookstore itself, 'Circus of Books', was a real establishment in West Hollywood that operated for over three decades, becoming a beloved and iconic spot in the community before closing its doors.