Title: Paying For It
MPA Rating: Unrated
Director: Sook-Yin Lee
Starring: Dan Beirne, Emily Lê, Andrea Werhun
Runtime: 1 hr 25 mins

What It Is: Based on the graphic novel of the same name, the film follows comic artist Chester Brown (Beirne) after he receives some unexpected news from his longtime partner, Sonny (Lê). She has fallen in love with someone else and wants to change the dynamics of their relationship. Around the same time, Chester reads a book that completely shifts his perspective on what he wants out of a relationship. He becomes comfortable seeking companionship through sex workers, a dynamic he is more than willing to explore.

What We Think: Having Sook-Yin Lee direct this really elevates the final product. She is, after all, the person Sonny is based on. I also want to make it clear that we at FilmSnobReviews are very much advocates for sex workers. It is real work and deserves to be done in safe and consensual environments. With that out of the way, I genuinely love the look of this film.

There is a turn-of-the-century indie aesthetic at play here, likely due to the period setting and costume design overseen by Lee. It feels honest and funny, and you can tell this was made by someone who deeply understood the assignment. Everything about it feels lived-in and intentional.

Our Grade: B-, You get a lot out of listening to Sook-Yin Lee’s interview with us, which I will link below. That added insight makes the film an even more rewarding watch, as you start noticing the small details that only someone who lived these experiences could provide.

Both leads are very good, and the structure of the script wisely limits how often they share the screen. Instead of weakening their chemistry, it strengthens it, making each interaction feel more meaningful. Overall, this is a lovely little indie that deserves your attention.

As of now, it is mostly playing in Los Angeles and New York, but if you want it to screen near you, there may be options worth exploring. Paying for It is out January 30th.