Paul Dawson American actor and screenwriter Country: USA

1. Biography of Paul Dawson
2. Breakthrough Role in "Shortbus"
3. Early Career and Underground Comedy
4. Independent Films and LGBT Community
5. Recent Work and Personal Life

Biography of Paul Dawson

Paul Dawson is an American actor and screenwriter known for his roles in independent films and his support for the LGBT movement. He gained significant attention for his portrayal of James, a suicidal former hustler, in the 2006 American comedy-drama film "Shortbus," directed by John Cameron Mitchell.

Breakthrough Role in "Shortbus"

In "Shortbus," Dawson's character engages in explicit sexual acts, which were portrayed authentically by the actors without the use of traditional simulation methods. Critics praised Dawson's performance in the film, particularly his masterful depiction of depression, which was both realistic and powerful.

Early Career and Underground Comedy

Prior to his breakthrough role in "Shortbus," Dawson appeared in the 1999 underground comedy film "The Blur of Insanity," directed by John Hussar. The film revolves around university parties and drug use. Dawson also made appearances in the pilot episode of the television series "Strangers with Candy" and an episode of the popular show "Law & Order."

Independent Films and LGBT Community

In 2000, Dawson starred in the independent drama film "Urbania," an adaptation of the popular play "Urban Folk Tales." The film premiered at the Sundance Film Festival and was later showcased at various LGBT film festivals. Following this, Dawson gained attention from the LGBT community for his role in the short film "The Mountain King."

Recent Work and Personal Life

In 2011, Dawson appeared in the film "The Lower Angels," an erotic horror film that, as of 2013, had not been widely released. It is known that Dawson is currently in a romantic relationship with his "Shortbus" co-star PJ DeBoy, mirroring their characters' romance in the film.