Festival Premiere: Joel Van der Molen Returns With Bold New Documentary FansOnly: The Human Side of Porn

Fresh off his win for Best Documentary at last year’s Breaking-TV Film Festival, award-winning filmmaker Joel Van der Molen returns in 2025 with another fearless project. His latest film, FansOnly: The Human Side of Porn, will make its festival premiere this October at the CEME Conference Centre, Rainham, London.

In an access-all-areas journey through the adult film industry, Joel partners with industry legend Tommy Gunn to challenge stereotypes, amplify hidden voices, and reveal the human stories behind one of the most misunderstood worlds in entertainment.

From the glitter of the AVN Awards to quiet, candid moments on set, Joel uncovers a community filled with warmth, humor, and resilience. With appearances from stars such as Alexis Texas, Emma Hix, Alexis Fawx, Danny Mountain, and insights from industry leaders including Holly Randall and Brah Bones, the film shines a spotlight on both the glamour and the struggles of life behind the screen.

Light-hearted yet unafraid to confront sensitive issues, FansOnly dives into themes of mental health, stigma, empowerment, gender dynamics, and the rise of platforms like OnlyFans that are reshaping the adult industry. One phrase that echoes throughout— “Women are the rose, and the men are the vase”—captures how female performers often lead the way in redefining power and success in the industry.

For Joel, whose curiosity has always driven him toward controversial and complex subjects, FansOnly continues his mission of exploring the lives and truths hidden behind headlines. His previous work includes the Amazon #1 documentary Gypsy Billionaire, winner of the SIFFA President Award, which earned him recognition from major press and audiences worldwide.

“My goal was simple,” Joel explains, “to get to know the people behind a world that so many engage with, but few truly understand. I wanted to move beyond stereotypes and shine a light on their humanity.”

With FansOnly: The Human Side of Porn, Joel Van der Molen once again brings empathy, courage, and unflinching honesty to the screen, inviting festival audiences to see an industry—and the people within it—in a brand new light.

🎬 FansOnly: The Human Side of Porn will screen as part of the official selection at the *4th Annual Breaking-TV Film Festival, October 3–5, 2025, CEME Conference Centre, Rainham, London.