The Foxy Merkins

The Foxy Merkins is a 2013 independent film that follows the lives of two lesbian prostitutes who navigate the streets of New York City. Directed by Madeleine Olnek, the movie stars a diverse cast, including Gian Maria Annovi, Nuotama Bodomo, and Diane Ciesla.

The film opens with Margaret (played by Annovi), a well-dressed and wealthy woman, leaving her home for the night. As she walks the streets of New York City, she runs into a young streetwalker named Jo (played by Bodomo), who mistakes Margaret for a prostitute. After they clear up the misunderstanding, Margaret becomes Jo's mentor, teaching her how to survive in the harsh world of prostitution.

As the story develops, the audience learns that Margaret isn't just a wealthy woman looking for a hobby. In reality, she is an expert in espionage, using her skills to help other women on the streets. Her tactics are unconventional, but they keep the women safe and help them make more money.

Margaret takes Jo under her wing, and the two women become close friends. While Jo struggles with the brutality and meanness of the other prostitutes, Margaret develops a romantic interest in Jo. Jo, on the other hand, seems to be more interested in a fellow streetwalker named Princess (played by Ciesla).

Throughout the movie, the audience is taken on a journey through the neighborhoods of New York City, seeing the challenges that prostitutes face on a daily basis. From the men who objectify them to the police who abuse their power, the women on the streets deal with oppression from all angles.

Despite the hardship, the film doesn't focus solely on the struggles of prostitution. The friendships and alliances formed by the characters offer moments of joy and humor. For example, Margaret and Jo often engage in role-playing, pretending to be mermaids swimming in the ocean.

The unique blend of comedy and drama in The Foxy Merkins makes it an engaging and captivating watch. Olnek's directing offers a unique perspective on the world of prostitution and how it affects women's lives.

One of the film's strengths is the diverse cast of characters. Not only are the main characters lesbian women of color, but the secondary characters are also diverse. The film includes an older African American prostitute who offers sage advice and a transgender woman who is a loyal friend.

Throughout the movie, there are several scenes where the characters interact with clients. These scenes are often uncomfortable to watch, highlighting the dangerous situations that the women must endure. However, these scenes never feel gratuitous, as they are an essential part of the story.

The Foxy Merkins isn't a typical movie, and it won't appeal to everyone. However, for those who enjoy indie films and want to see a unique perspective on the world of prostitution, it's definitely worth watching.

Overall, The Foxy Merkins is a compelling film that blends comedy and drama to offer a unique perspective on the lives of lesbian prostitutes in New York City. The diverse cast of characters and the film's exploration of the challenges of prostitution make it a thought-provoking and engaging watch.