This year marks the 20^th anniversary of Lucas Entertainment – one of the biggest studios with the highest budget adult films on record.  The film company made a political splash when their film Men of Israel filmed on location, showcasing the beauty of the land and the gay men who hail from there.  Out of the box marketing, cinematic approach and top notch casting are just a reflection of the creator/CEO Michael Lucas, notorious for his strong opinions and unflinching comments. 

As a writer and activist, he has gone head to head with Anne Coulter, contributed to The Advocate, Huffington Post and the New York Blade.  He has spoken at universities and has shared his views on Prep, drug use in the LGBT community and Muslim extremists.  He used his cinematic talents to write, direct and produce two documentaries – his labors of love – Undressing Israel: Gay Men in the Promised Land and Campaign of Hate: Russia and Gay Propaganda.  He was born into a Russian Israeli background and dealt with the racism from the Russian nation first hand.  His personality is strong and guarded, but there is no doubt that he is a man of power.

I had a candid chat with him about his career, the industry and racism. 

What do you attribute you long running success in the industry to?

My determination to succeed, my patience and my decision to never try drugs or alcohol.

What made you decide to move to the US?  What were the most surprising things to you during your first few months here?

As a Jew – and a gay man – I never felt at home in Russia. I fell in love with America and the American people who made me feel so welcome here.

Your films are known to be high budget, high quality films with special detail to location, setting and your stars.  Why is it necessary to create cinematic experiences?  Isn’t it just guys having sex on camera?

Many companies film in bland apartments. Our decision to film in beautiful locations is because it’s much more pleasant for both the models and the crew. Plus, it looks much better than some dull white bedroom. I like to rent a big villa in an isolated & stunning location like the mountains of Spain and have 20 -25 models and crew staying in one place. It creates a bonding experience and a good sexual energy.

Your opinions and uncensored views are infamous.  Have you always been outspoken?  What makes you unafraid of the backlash to some of your statements?

I didn’t come to America not to be able to speak my mind, I did so even in Russia.

What was your childhood like?

I was loved by my parents and grandparents but had a lot of problems in school. Kids are cruel to those who are different. While this is true for everywhere, it’s particularly so in Soviet Russia.

Your start in the industry was actually in heterosexual films – was that a difficult way to start your career?

When you are 23 it isn’t. I had sex with women before, so it wasn’t something unfamiliar.

What is your view on gay for pay actors?

It is always sad when people are doing something they hate doing. 

What were some of the biggest obstacles in starting your own production company?

Money. I was way too young and had no credit history. No one wanted to give me credit. Although now I am happy that I did it with my own money. I learned how to be careful and budget.

What are some of the biggest changes in the industry over the years?

The internet has replaced VHS and DVD’s and there are many new ways to reach the customer and to promote films. Piracy became a huge problem that is difficult to fight and of course, since video equipment has become so much more affordable and easy to use there is much more competition. We have to work much harder and be much more creative to keep and gain more customers.  

Growing up Jewish in the Soviet Union must have been a nightmare.  How did you deal with the antisemitism?

I was always proud of my background and was never intimidated by anyone.

What age did you come out?

I think I was 16, basically as soon as I figured out why I was different. I never wanted to keep my sexuality a secret as I was never ashamed of it.  I was fortunate to have a loving and supportive family.

Is it hard building strong friendships in the adult industry?

Very hard. Unfortunately, there are lots of jealous people.

How was your approach to making documentaries the same or different than making one of your films?

It is very different. It takes 10 days to film a production and just a few weeks to get it out. It took me nearly a year to film and edit each documentary. It takes 10 times more money to produce and you make no money on them. It’s more of a product of love and passion.

What was it like going head to head with Ann Coulter?

It was fun. She is a very intelligent woman with strong opinions, so it was also a challenge.

What are your hobbies outside of the adult and political industry?

Travelling, theater, opera, visual arts and most importantly spending time with my friends and family.

Rapid Fire:

Celebrity crush?  I don’t have any.

Who would play you in a Hollywood movie? No-one

Most embarrassing song on your playlist? “Falling in love again” by Marlene Dietrich

Worst fashion trend you fell victim to? I never go for trends but I think I have style.

Biggest pet peeve when working with actors? Dishonesty