Two decades is a milestone in the adult content market — one that not many companies reach. But lesbian-themed Girlfriends Films is closing in on the two-decade mark, thanks to the solid performance of long-running series such as Women Seeking Women and Mother Daughter Exchange Club, among others.
Based in Valencia, California, Girlfriends Films was founded by ‘Moose’ and Dan O’Connell in 2002. Moose bought full control of the company in 2014, with O’Connell continuing to provide most of its content through his own production company.
“20 years ago, we had a vision for producing realistic lesbian porn that initiated what has now become a top niche industry,” Moose told YNOT. “We became business partners, and the rest is history.”
As for the secret of Girlfriends Films’ longevity, especially during the last 20 years when the internet and free porn gutted the DVD-based adult industry?
“Just like any great television show, it’s not only what’s out in front of the cameras but the relationships behind the scenes that maters,” Moose replied. “We often speak of the ‘Girlfriends Films family’. This refers to the bond among our staff and the way we treat each other and the talent we work with. The GFF family is truly important to us.”
Girlfriends Films’ creation of so many long-lasting lesbian series is another reason for its continued success. When it comes to sheer numbers of episodes produced, even the achievements of the Marvel Cinematic Universe pale in comparison.
“Women Seeking Women is the longest running GF series: We are now releasing Episode 180,” said Moose. “It’s hands-down the most popular series and it’s actually the most awarded of any adult film series in history. Others that continue to be popular are the Cheer Squad, the Mother-Daughter Exchange Club, Lesbian Legal, Lesbian Seductions, and the list goes on. I can’t speculate on exactly what fans enjoy, but I think it’s about having a theme that people can relate to or a genre that they enjoy watching.”
Beyond creating lesbian adult series that fans want to keep watching, Girlfriends Films’ content stands out because of their performers’ evident enthusiasm. (Nothing kills an adult video’s buzz like actors who look like they’d rather be cleaning the cat’s litter box.) They like doing what they’re doing on camera.
Asked where he finds such enthusiastic talent, Moose’s answer is simple and straightforward.
“We like to cast girls who like Girlfriends,” he said. “It’s really that simple. If they enjoy what they’re doing in our films it shows, and they get booked again. That’s why you will often see many of the same talent appearing in our movies.”
As for keeping fans attached to Girlfriends Films? “Our films are exclusively girl/girl, so there is a specific market for that,” noted Moose. “As well, we are active on social media and our blog. Our membership site also has a private forum where members can connect and give feedback. We do look at that as well.”
One thing is certain: The adult industry has certainly changed since Girlfriends Films opened its doors in 2002.
“The biggest thing is more competition,” Moose said. “There was a time we were the only G/G studio, then there were a handful, and now it seems everybody is doing it. The difference is — this is all we do. So, we keep doing what we do, the way that we do it.”
In order to stay out in front, surely Girlfriends Films has some innovations up its sleeve?
“Yes, we definitely do,” replied Moose. “I think the challenges with shooting during this past year put a few projects on hold that we were (and still are) excited about. As things continue to open up and it’s safe to get more of our veteran talent back on set, fans will be extremely happy with what we have in store. As they say, good things come to those who wait!”
Images courtesy Girlfriends Films
