Denis Côté’s latest documentary dives into the world of Paul, a man navigating life through cleaning and online interactions. This observational film blurs the lines between reality and fiction, allowing Paul to share his story through his own videos instead of traditional interviews.
In one notable clip, Paul talks about his battle with weight and social anxiety, revealing a turning point where he decides he’s ready to change his life. His method of transformation? Finding joy in cleaning—especially for dominatrices.
Embracing the title “Cleaning Simp,” Paul connects with clients who pay him not with money but through valuable experiences. He cleans for characters like Miss Jasmine and Donut Slut. While he thoroughly tidies their homes, he also engages in light roleplay, becoming a footstool or a horse in non-sexual scenarios rooted in BDSM culture. These activities bring him not just pleasure but also help him grow. For instance, one dominatrix encourages him to document his healthy meals as part of his self-improvement project.
Côté is known for blending fact and fiction in his work. In previous films, he showcased genuine experiences through a fictional lens, like in “A Skin So Soft,” where bodybuilders played roles beyond their everyday lives. Here, he adopts a similar approach by allowing the audience to witness the unique interactions between Paul and the dominatrices. This dynamic is complemented by Paul’s whimsical love for “Alice in Wonderland,” as he decorates his home to reflect this theme, symbolizing the odd contrasts in his life.
Despite his social anxiety, Paul exhibits control in his relationships, highlighting a fascinating paradox. The online world gives him a platform for self-expression he struggles to achieve face-to-face. However, it can also feel confining, as he obsessively tracks his follower count, hinting at the darker side of social media’s allure. A recent survey by Pew Research shows that 70% of teens feel pressured to maintain a certain image online, illustrating how this pressure can mirror Paul’s experiences.
As a director, Côté maintains a respectful distance from his subject. He observes without judgment, offering viewers genuine insights into Paul’s life rather than making him a spectacle. The interactions captured are not just quirky; they open a dialogue about acceptance, transformation, and the nature of personal connections in and out of the digital realm.
This film invites viewers to rethink their perceptions and invest emotionally in Paul’s quest for a better life. It challenges our understanding of identity while providing a warm character study that is both engaging and thought-provoking.
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