Mysterious Skin (2004)

It’s no mystery we like the sight of skin so it stands to reason we’d like Mysterious Skin (2004). If this title sounds familiar, it’s because it’s the name of a 1996 novel by Scott Heim which was adapted into a play by Prince Gomolvilas in 2003. Thanks to film director and screenwriter Gregg Araki, the story comes to the screen — and it’s rated NC-17! Unfortunately, the story is one of a serious and sad nature since it follows the diverging paths taken by two eight-year-old boys (played by Chase Ellison and George Webster) who were sexually abused by their little league coach (Bill Sage). As teens, Brian Lackey (Brady Corbet) buries his abuse in a fantasy of alien abduction while Neil McCormick (Joseph Gordon-Levitt) becomes a small-time male hustler, using his sexuality to get what he wants from older men. As Neil five-and-dimes his body throughout the film, he often flashes his flesh. From shirtless shots to full nudity, Mr. Gordon-Levitt proves to be a rising star who’ll make the members on audience members rise. In other words, Joseph reveals more than just his acting chops! In one scene, he exposes his bare back and a bit of his dink when he takes his pants off to service a client. The film also features Billy Drago, Elisabeth Shue, Mary Lynn Rajskub, and Pete Kasper. As a Sedan driver, the latter actor attacks Neil in the shower, forcing Joe to reveal his butt and fellatio skills. We’re gonna need some tissues!