Masquerades of Research
Synopsis
The two-part feature film 'Masquerades of Research: Part I and II' is a fictional biography of pre-queer sociologist Laud Humphreys, author of the infamous book 'Tearoom Trade: Impersonal Sex in Public Places' (1970, 1975). Part I begins in St. Louis in 1967 in a pre-Stonewall and pre-Watergate USA, exploring the impetus behind Humphreys “Sociologist as Voyeur” research method — a still radical gesture and one of the first in the Western canon to turn the ethnographic gaze back onto the hypocritical conservative mindset that created it. Why can’t statistics be avant-garde? Part II begins in his Californian office in 1975, where we find Humphreys sweating in a radically different USA on the cusp of republishing 'Tearoom Trade'. Its relevance to contemporary discussions of intimacy, social presentation and data control is delicately carried by visual intensities and rich performances that keep as many secrets as they give away.
Top Cast
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Release History & Theatrical Window
Geelong Pride Film Festival
Festival / Special Debut
Key Information & Fast Facts
- Director
- Padraig Robinson
- Original Title
- Masquerades of Research
- Spoken Languages
- English
- Runtime
- 1h 5m
Creative Leadership & Key Crew
Padraig Robinson
Department Leadership Roster
Padraig Robinson
Director
Production Stills & Gallery
Official cinematic photography and background stills for Masquerades of Research.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Masquerades of Research
Quick factual answers about cast, synopsis, director, box office, and release information.
What is Masquerades of Research about?
The two-part feature film 'Masquerades of Research: Part I and II' is a fictional biography of pre-queer sociologist Laud Humphreys, author of the infamous book 'Tearoom Trade: Impersonal Sex in Public Places' (1970, 1975). Part I begins in St. Louis in 1967 in a pre-Stonewall and pre-Watergate USA, exploring the impetus behind Humphreys “Sociologist as Voyeur” research method — a still radical gesture and one of the first in the Western canon to turn the ethnographic gaze back onto the hypocritical conservative mindset that created it. Why can’t statistics be avant-garde? Part II begins in his Californian office in 1975, where we find Humphreys sweating in a radically different USA on the cusp of republishing 'Tearoom Trade'. Its relevance to contemporary discussions of intimacy, social presentation and data control is delicately carried by visual intensities and rich performances that keep as many secrets as they give away.
Who directed Masquerades of Research?
Masquerades of Research was directed by Padraig Robinson.
Who stars in Masquerades of Research?
The principal cast of Masquerades of Research includes Mark O'Halloran, Ivan Doan, Ricky Watson, Patrick Fitzsymons, Sean Lee.
When was Masquerades of Research released and how long is it?
Masquerades of Research was released in 2022 with a total runtime of 1h 5m.