Stag (film)

A stag film, also known as a stag reel, smoker, or blue movie, is a type of film, typically short, produced for private or semi-private viewing, featuring explicit sexual activity. Stag films were historically circulated clandestinely, often shown at gatherings of men only (hence the name, alluding to "stag parties").

The production and distribution of stag films predates the widespread availability of commercial pornography. In the early 20th century, they were often the only readily accessible form of moving picture depicting sexual acts. As such, they held a transgressive and illicit allure. Due to their illegal or semi-legal status, production values were generally low and focused more on explicit content than narrative or artistic merit.

With the gradual liberalization of obscenity laws in many countries, and the rise of easily accessible and legally produced pornography through various media (video, the internet), the cultural significance and prevalence of stag films have diminished considerably. The term "stag film" is still used, but often more generally to refer to any low-budget, explicitly sexual film. The historical context of their production and distribution as a form of contraband remains a defining characteristic.