LOS ANGELES - Channel 1 Releasing subsidiary Rascal Video is celebrating its 10th anniversary.
The company grew from an impromptu meeting of three gay adult industry insiders who shared a dream and the vision to make the dream a reality.
Shortly after meeting in 1999 during AVN's Adult Entertainment Expo, Chi Chi LaRue, Rob Novinger and Steven Walker decided they had to work together. The men formed Rascal Video, which released its debut title, Steele Ranger, later that year.
Since its maiden release, Rascal has produced diverse films in nearly every gay genre. The studio employs models from around the world, including notables like Kyle Kennedy, Brandon Lee, Cole Ryder and Eddie Diaz. One of the biggest joys of founding the studio, according to LaRue, was the ability to polish young hopefuls like Johnny Hazzard into stars.
"We've done some really groundbreaking stuff," said GAYVN Hall of Fame director LaRue. "Once, we rented a bus and shot scenes driving all the way from Los Angeles to Las Vegas. That was crazy, but it was a lot of fun. We've also shot movies around the globe, in some exotic locations like Spain, Italy, Costa Rica and even Germany.
"Jeez, so much has happened in the past 10 years. I can't wait to see what the next 10 bring."
Rascal has produced a number of big-budget and award-winning titles. Bolt received the Best All-Sex Video award from both GAYVN and the Grabbies. Wrong Side of the Tracks took Best Picture from both award organizations. Detention and Oral Exams won awards including Best Group Scene, Best Sex Scene and Best Oral Scene, while Hand Picked 2, Str8 Shots and When Bears Attack garnered awards for Best Amateur Video, Best Solo Video and Best Specialty Release.
Rascal exclusives also have won their share of awards. Kennedy, Matt Summers, Eddie Stone and Blake Riley received Best Newcomer accolades, and Hazzard was named Best Actor.
"Over the next decade, Rascal looks to a bigger, bolder and brighter future with more big-budget blockbusters and new hot products with the upcoming year marking the return of mainstream model and Rascal exclusive Benjamin Bradley as well as an all new leather-themed production," LaRue said. "Don't blink now. Rascal is just getting started."
For more information about Rascal Video, visit C1R.com.
