

The Dirk Diggler Story
Synopsis
A mockumentary short film written and directed by Paul Thomas Anderson at age seventeen. Presented as a behind-the-scenes television profile, it chronicles the rise and fall of Dirk Diggler, a well-endowed porn star whose fame and fortune spiral into drug abuse and tragedy. Modeled on real-life adult film actor John Holmes, the film serves as an early prototype for Anderson’s later feature Boogie Nights (1997).
Trailers, Teasers & Extra Featurettes
Official promotional previews, behind-the-scenes footage, and exclusive clips.
The Dirk Diggler Story by Paul Thomas Anderson (1988)
Type: Featurette • Published 2014-06-24
Top Cast
Explore Star Directory →Release History & Theatrical Window
January 1, 1988
Wide Cinema Exhibition
Key Information & Fast Facts
- Director
- Paul Thomas Anderson
- Screenplay & Story
- Paul Thomas Anderson
- Original Title
- The Dirk Diggler Story
- Country of Origin
- United States of America
- Spoken Languages
- English
- Runtime
- 31m
Creative Leadership & Key Crew
Paul Thomas Anderson
Paul Thomas Anderson
Paul Thomas Anderson
Shane Conrad
Department Leadership Roster
Paul Thomas Anderson
Director
Paul Thomas Anderson
Director of Photography
Paul Thomas Anderson
Writer
Shane Conrad
Producer
Production Stills & Gallery
Official cinematic photography and background stills for The Dirk Diggler Story.
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Frequently Asked Questions About The Dirk Diggler Story
Quick factual answers about cast, synopsis, director, box office, and release information.
What is The Dirk Diggler Story about?
A mockumentary short film written and directed by Paul Thomas Anderson at age seventeen. Presented as a behind-the-scenes television profile, it chronicles the rise and fall of Dirk Diggler, a well-endowed porn star whose fame and fortune spiral into drug abuse and tragedy. Modeled on real-life adult film actor John Holmes, the film serves as an early prototype for Anderson’s later feature Boogie Nights (1997).
Who directed The Dirk Diggler Story?
The Dirk Diggler Story was directed by Paul Thomas Anderson.
Who stars in The Dirk Diggler Story?
The principal cast of The Dirk Diggler Story includes Michael Stein, Robert Ridgely, Eddie Delcore, Rusty Schwimmer, Ernie Anderson.
When was The Dirk Diggler Story released and how long is it?
The Dirk Diggler Story was released in 1988 with a total runtime of 31m.



















