The Happy Hooker Goes to Washington

The Happy Hooker Goes to Washington is a comedy film released in 1977, directed by William A. Levey and starring Joey Heatherton, George Hamilton, and Ray Walston. The movie is the sequel to the 1975 film The Happy Hooker and is based on the real-life events of the bestseller book of the same name written by Xaviera Hollander.

The film begins with Xaviera Hollander (Heatherton) journeying to Washington D.C. to campaign for the legalization of prostitution in the United States. There she meets with Congressman Stjohn (Hamilton) and Senator Graves (Walston), both of whom initially oppose her cause but are eventually swayed by Xaviera's charm and persuasive arguments.

As the story progresses, Xaviera finds herself involved in various comedic situations, most notably when she is mistaken for a Russian spy by a group of government officials. The misunderstanding leads to a hilarious chase scene through the streets of Washington, with Xaviera and her friends trying to evade the pursuing agents.

In addition to the comedy, the film also touches on serious issues such as politics, corruption, and the moral ambiguities of prostitution. Xaviera's character is portrayed not as a victim but as a confident, empowered woman who chooses to work in the sex industry and sees nothing wrong with it. This portrayal was seen as controversial at the time of the film's release, but it also helped to bring attention to the issue and spark conversations about the legalization and regulation of prostitution in the United States.

The movie's soundtrack includes catchy songs titled "The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas," "One Night Affair," and "The Hooker." The costumes are flamboyant and eye-catching, with Xaviera often wearing fur coats and flashy jewelry. The film's cinematography captures the essence of Washington, D.C. with aerial shots of the Capitol and other famous landmarks.

The primary attraction of The Happy Hooker Goes to Washington is its cast, with Joey Heatherton leading a talented group of actors. Her portrayal of Xaviera Hollander is energetic, spirited, and a refreshing take on a character that is often portrayed as being downtrodden and exploited. George Hamilton's Congressman Stjohn is comically conservative, with his character arc notable for the transformation from a stern political figure to someone who finds himself attracted to Xaviera.

Ray Walston's Senator Graves provides a contrasting perspective, with his character struggling to balance his moral objections with the realities of the system he operates in. Additionally, there are many cameos from well-known actors, including Phil Foster, Charles Lane, and June Allyson, who play politicians, reporters, and lobbyists with various attitudes towards prostitution.

The Happy Hooker Goes to Washington is not without its flaws, with some critics noting that the film lacks depth and is overly reliant on slapstick humor. However, others argue that the film's simple approach is what makes it so entertaining, with its mix of humor and social commentary working in tandem to make a thought-provoking yet thoroughly enjoyable movie.

Overall, The Happy Hooker Goes to Washington is a lighthearted and amusing comedy that manages to address serious social issues with humor and grace. Its commentary on prostitution and the politics surrounding it remains relevant today, and its depiction of a confident and empowered female character is a refreshing change from the norm. If you're looking for a fun and thought-provoking movie about sex workers' rights, this film is a must-watch.