France-based studio Dorcel has secured Riley Reid for a starring role in its new feature, "Strip," marking her return to studio work after several years. The film, directed by XBIZ Director of the Year Ricky Greenwood, explores the seedier aspects of strip clubs.

Production Details and Cast

"Strip" centers on Tommy, a sleazy strip club owner portrayed by Tommy Pistol, who manipulates those around him to resolve his own difficulties. Reid plays the club's manager, working to protect the interests of the establishment and its dancers.

The production shoot took place at the Blue Zebra Adult Cabaret in North Hollywood. During filming, Tommy Pistol appeared with a bald cap, a comb-over, gold-capped teeth, and chains around his neck and rings on his fingers, wearing a butterscotch-colored leather jacket. He described his character as a "scumbag." Pistol stated that the role was "something different" and "something I haven’t gotten to do in almost 20 years," calling it "the best movie I’ve ever done."

Reid's role as the club manager involves trying to get things "back on track." Greenwood emphasized Reid's acting skills in the feature, noting that her platforms offer content for those seeking sex scenes, while "Strip" provides a "moody feature film" acting performance. Reid's preparation for the role included knowing her lines, and Greenwood observed her acting was "on point" and that she was "very involved." The film includes a single sex scene featuring Reid with Gizelle Blanco and Jayden Cole.

Other cast members include Jayden Cole, Gizelle Blanco, Kenna James, and Anna Claire Clouds, who were selected for their experience in feature dancing. Isiah Maxwell, Seth Gamble, and Charles Dera are also part of the cast, appearing in suits as "club tough guys." Ameena Green plays Christie, a character described as a "pick-me girl" who is "obsessed with Tommy" despite his manipulative behavior. Scarlett Alexis plays Val, a character who is "smarter" and does not trust Tommy.

Gizelle Blanco, who has eight years of experience dancing in clubs, stated that working on "Strip" brought back memories for her. She appreciated the story's portrayal of a "sleazebag" character, finding it "very true to strip club culture." Anna Claire Clouds commented on the presence of "greasy" characters in clubs, noting that "even the greasy guy is kind of nice and fun."

Bringing Reid Back to Studio Work

Dorcel initiated discussions to involve Reid in the project in January. Greenwood recounted that a vice president of Dorcel expressed a desire to make a movie with Reid, as they had not previously had the opportunity to film a scene with her. Reid had not performed in a studio title for several years, though she remains active on her personal platforms.

Greenwood later had dinner with Mark Spiegler, Reid’s agent, who indicated that a studio project was not out of the question, leading to negotiations. Reid had previously shown interest in working with Dorcel, but geographical distance had been a barrier. She explained to XBIZ that her extensive shooting schedule in Los Angeles made travel to Europe for work impractical. For "Strip," Dorcel offered a feature role with "girl/girl" scenes and "a lot of dialogue," which interested Reid.

Around March, Greenwood spoke with Reid about the project. He noted that the opportunity to play a character "trying to get things back on track" was a factor in her decision to accept the role.

Filming Techniques and Future Endeavors

Ricky Greenwood's longtime cinematographer, Matt Holder, revealed that the film uses a specific lens to create a particular visual style. Greenwood confirmed the use of the Canon Rangefinder "Dream Lens," which operates at f0.95. This lens provides a "vintage look" and a "creamy look" with a shallow depth of field, which Greenwood prefers over "sharp lenses that look too new." He stated that he aims for the film to appear "old or dirty," finding "beauty in that, and in the imperfection of that lens." He added that while strip clubs are often perceived as "dim and dirty," the film aims to highlight "brightness and color." Scarlett Alexis noted that the Dorcel production style, including the cinematography and lighting, creates a "beautifully shot" aesthetic even in "sordid characters in sketchy environments."

Regarding her future in studio work, Reid has not ruled out additional projects but indicated a focus on other ventures. Her current activities include developing her clothing brand, Eighteen Plus; co-founding the Clona AI platform; launching her creator marketing company, A.S.H. Agency; and negotiating potential product lines such as pleasure products, games, and lingerie with Spencer Gifts. She stated that achieving these goals would provide her with "more freedom to come back" to studio work.

Key Facts

  • Riley Reid returns to studio work in Dorcel's feature "Strip."
  • Ricky Greenwood, XBIZ Director of the Year, directs the film.
  • Tommy Pistol portrays the "sleazy strip club owner" Tommy.
  • The film was shot at the Blue Zebra Adult Cabaret in North Hollywood.
  • Dorcel approached Greenwood in January to discuss Reid's involvement.
  • Reid's role includes a single sex scene with Gizelle Blanco and Jayden Cole.