The Happy Hooker Goes to Washington

The Happy Hooker Goes to Washington is a 1977 comedy film that artfully combines political satire with the world of adult entertainment. Starring Joey Heatherton, George Hamilton, and Ray Walston, the film is a raucous and irreverent trek through the corruption and duplicity of politics in Washington D.C, while dropping a hint of societal commentary along the way.

Joey Heatherton, known for her irresistible charm and vivacity, breathes life into the character of Xaviera Hollander, a famous madam from New York City who is invited to testify before Congress in Washington D.C. An intelligent and entrepreneurial woman, Xaviera is no stranger to scandal, navigating her way through the world of adult entertainment.

When she receives a subpoena to testify at a congressional hearing that aims to delve into the moral fiber of American society, she doesn't shirk away. Rather than be cowed, Xaviera sees it as an opportunity to shine a light on the hypocrisy prevalent in societal perceptions of morality, especially when juxtaposed against the political machinations in the capital.

Xaviera lands in Washington with a bang, immediately thrown into the world of power, politics, and intrigue. The members of Congress may have invited her expecting a scandalous testimony to forward their aims, but Xaviera is more than capable of flipping the script when she identifies the hypocrisy of her accusers.

George Hamilton delivers a suave performance as Ward Thompson, a lobbyist who isn't above utilizing underhanded tactics. What ensues from the interaction between Xaviera and Thompson is a series of humorous situations, which forms much of the film's comedic spine.

Ray Walston, recognized for his versatile acting chops, takes up the role of Senator Sturges, enhancing it with his impeccable comic timing and sardonic wit. As the well-intentioned yet morally skewed politician, it is Sturges who initiates the congressional action against Xaviera.

The directorial prowess of William A. Levey shines through as he skilfully navigates the risky proposition of blending politics with adult entertainment, that too, in the sensitive setting of Washington D.C. The taut screenplay and clever comedy timings manage to avoid going overboard, maintaining a playful tone throughout.

Supplemented by a catchy musical score that sets the mood and pace for the film, The Happy Hooker Goes to Washington is replete with a unique sense of humor that often teeters on the brink of absurdity without ever falling over the edge.

The cinematography doesn't shy away from showcasing the grandeur and opulence of the political vista of Washington D.C, often using these extravagant backdrops to contrast with the absurdities that unfold on the screen.

The movie is a successor to the 1975 film The Happy Hooker, a film based upon the real-life experiences of Xaviera Hollander, who published a memoir recounting her life's journey from secretary to high-profile madam. However, rather than being simply a continuation or sequel, The Happy Hooker Goes To Washington stands alone in its unique brand of comedy and satire.

In all, The Happy Hooker Goes to Washington is a tongue in cheek satire on politics and societal hypocrisy. The movie uses the powerful tool of humor and wit to deliver a social commentary on the state of morality in society, especially in the garb of political maneuvering.

The performances, notably from Heatherton, Hamilton, and Walston, are engaging, and the storyline, while risque at times, remains mostly self-aware and committed to its underlying comic premise.

The film is indeed, a cult classic that while delivering plenty of raunchy humor and wit, also gets audiences thinking about societal norms, hypocrisy, and the powerful world of politics.

Whether you watch it for the comedy, the performances, or the political-world intrigue, The Happy Hooker Goes to Washington offers a cinematic experience that's daring, unconventional, and thoroughly entertaining.