Laverne Cox was also attached but has since departed the project

A sex worker documentary titled 'Sell/Buy/Date' is receiving a backlash on social media.

The doc is based on Sarah Jones' 2016 Off Broadway stage production of the same name.

Jones described the upcoming feature as an exploration of "one of the most critical issues at the intersection of race, feminism, power and economics in our current cultural climate: the sex industry."

Many have criticised the apparent lack of consultation with real-life sex workers in the project.

 

Big name exec producers attached included Meryl Streep, Rashida Jones and Laverne Cox.

Cox has announced that she left the project, writing: "When I agreed to come on as an executive producer of 'Sell/Buy/Date' I did so because I was so deeply moved by Sarah Jones’ brilliant play and her unbelievable, undeniable talent as an artist, as an actor. I signed on to support her incredible talent.

"I have so much love for her as a human being. But I am not in an emotional place to deal with the outrage by some around my participation in this project. So I have decided to pull out.

"To be clear, I am no longer involved in any capacity in ['Sell/Buy/Date.'] I have to take care of my mental, physical and emotional health."

 

Sarah Jones shared her gratitude to Laverne and asked that people "kee[p] an open mind about the project before judging it."

She also released a statement in response to the backlash. It reads: "As a Black feminist artist, I have always centered the stories of traditionally marginalized people, especially women and femmes struggling for liberation and self-determination. My sisters in the sex industry are no exception.

"I am committed to deep listening to folks with lived experience, not only in my interview, but also those we hire behind the scenes."