French Connection owner Christopher Hull told XBIZ HotGayClassics.com will draw from the archive of the Gay Film Institute (GFI), a collection of erotica and related materials founded more than thirty years ago.
The French Connection is launching the paysite in conjunction with boutique label Top Hat Releasing, and has released a number of GFI titles to DVD in recent years.
"First and foremost, vintage erotica is distinct from anything being made today," Hull said. "One look at the movies and you can tell that they were made by directors who loved what they were doing and considered it a true craft; they weren't just trying to make a buck."
HotGayClassics will offer users a download-to-own option for their preferred vignettes. "They will be able to download those scenes and won't have to keep paying to watch them over and over again," he said.
Such iconic performers as George Payne, Scorpio and Jack Wrangler are among the notable performers featured on the paysite. New titles will cycle through on a weekly basis.
"The guys in the classic stuff are natural, real-looking men and there is a strong appeal to see those kinds of models," Hull said. "Take for example Jack Wrangler. He's one of those icons that would be considered just as rugged and sexy today as he was in the early '70s."
The French Connection joins a growing list of all-male companies drawing upon gay erotica's formative years in the 21st-century digital age. Athletic Model Guild, Bijou Video, Channel 1 Releasing and Colt Studio Group have recently dipped into their back, back catalog and repackaged a variety of vintage titles for redistribution.