Prostitution in films has turned from serious life crises into Pretty Woman and jokes in comedy films. The subject of male prostitution has been avoided like the plague. But Johns tackles the subject without glorifying it nor condemning it. The title itself, you would think, would be of reference to what prostitutes call their customers, but Johns is really titled because of the great number of people in this world with that name... and we run across our fair share of them in the film.
The main character in this day-in-the-life film is John, played by David Arquette, who is homeless, prostitutes himself for money, and, above all just wants to celebrate his birthday (on Christmas, no less) like he never has before. His dream in life is to spend one night in the grandest hotel in Holleywood, and he just needs the $300 to do so. But he ripped off a small time drug hood to get it, putting him in serious danger. The money, however, was stolen along with his shoes while he slept under a tree. His best friend Donner, played by Lucas Haas, lives in a run down house, tries to work the street but can't take his customers seriously, and truly wouldn't survive if it wasn't for John. Yet, he wants to give John his birthday wish and help him as best as he can.
The film runs around the relationship between two young men, the various people they know, and the "dates" they have. It's surprising how real Arquette's performance (as well as all the cast) is, making you forget your not following them around on the street. But, the film, despite Arquette's upbeat attitude, becomes increasingly somber and deadly. From sunrise to dusk we see the happy exterior peeled away as John's problems and misfortunes mount, then spill over onto the hapless Donner.
Everything is executed well, from acting to camerawork. The message of the movie (the danger of the streets) comes across loud and clear, without being preachy. Its an excellent film, but I have no desire to watch it again.