"Trade Center" is a groundbreaking documentary directed by Adam Baran that explores the hidden history of the World Trade Center as a cruising location for gay men in the 1980s and 1990s. The film features the voices of five men sharing their personal experiences, reflecting on a time when the WTC served as a clandestine meeting place for intimate encounters. Through intimate recollections and juxtaposing present-day footage, the documentary sheds light on the erased sexual culture that once thrived within the iconic towers.
Trade Center (2021)
“Beyond Commerce: Documentary Sheds Light on the Forgotten Sexual Culture of the WTC
“Trade Center: Revealing the Secret Gay History of the World Trade Center” is a thought-provoking documentary directed by Adam Baran. It delves into the untold stories of gay cruising at the World Trade Center in the 1980s and 1990s, offering a unique perspective on a place known primarily for its economic significance.
The film brings to light the hidden sexual culture that existed within the towering structure before the 9/11 attacks reshaped its legacy. Through the voices of five gay men who frequented the WTC, the documentary paints a vivid picture of a time when businessmen, tourists, and locals mingled beneath its surface, engaging in furtive encounters that defied societal norms.
“Journey to the Past: “Trade Center” Chronicles the Clandestine World of Gay Cruising
Baran’s decision to forego traditional archival footage enhances the film’s impact. Instead, current footage of the newly rebuilt Freedom Tower is juxtaposed with the men’s recollections, revealing the stark contrast between the past and present. The sanitized, commerce-driven landscape stands as a testament to the erasure of the once-vibrant sexual culture that thrived within the WTC.
“Trade Center” offers a poignant exploration of the complex interplay between history, sexuality, and societal acceptance. It reminds us of the importance of preserving marginalized histories and the need to challenge dominant narratives. This documentary is a powerful tribute to the resilience and spirit of the LGBTQ+ community, while also highlighting the ongoing struggle for visibility and acceptance.
Trade Center (2021) – Gay short film, Documentary, 9 mn, USA, directed by Adam Baran with Dale Corvino, Billy Miller
Keywords: Trade Center documentary, gay cruising history, World Trade Center, LGBTQ+ culture, Adam Baran
