Watch The Canal Street Madam

The Canal Street Madam is a documentary film from 2010 that chronicles the life of Jeanette Maier, a former brothel owner in New Orleans. The film provides an intimate portrait of Maier, who ran a high-end prostitution ring from her home on Canal Street for over a decade. Through personal interviews with Maier and her family, as well as former clients and sex workers, the film explores the various factors that led Maier to enter the world of sex work. Maier, a divorced mother of two, struggled to make ends meet with a series of low-paying jobs before discovering that she could earn far more money as a madam. While the film is sympathetic to Maier, it does not shy away from depicting the exploitative nature of the sex industry and the dangerous situations that often arise for sex workers.

The film also sheds light on the political and legal issues surrounding prostitution in New Orleans. In 1999, Maier was arrested and charged with running a prostitution ring. During her trial, it was revealed that her clients included a number of prominent local figures, including politicians, lawyers, and businessmen. Maier was eventually sentenced to four months in prison and three years of probation, but the film suggests that she was unfairly targeted and punished by law enforcement.

One of the most compelling aspects of The Canal Street Madam is its exploration of the relationships between Maier and her clients and sex workers. Maier spent years fostering personal relationships with many of her clients, becoming a confidante and friend to some. The film also features interviews with two of Maier's former employees, both of whom praise Maier for her compassion and generosity. However, the film also highlights the emotional toll that sex work can take on those involved, including Maier herself.

Overall, The Canal Street Madam is a fascinating and insightful documentary that provides a nuanced look at the world of prostitution and the people who inhabit it. The film is anchored by Maier's compelling personality and her willingness to share her story with the filmmakers. While the subject matter can be difficult at times, the film handles it with sensitivity, empathy, and a clear-eyed understanding of the complexities involved.

The Canal Street Madam is a 2010 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 17 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.8.