The film garnered a variety of positive reviews. In a 2012 article for
The Age on whether movies can help overturn stereotypes surrounding sex and disabilities, Shane Green described the film as moving and noted that it: "continues to win international acclaim". Following 2012 screenings at the
SXSW festival in Texas,
Badass Digest reviewer Zack Carlson concluded: "
Scarlet Road isn’t flashy, artsy or clever. It’s better than that: a plain, old effective documentary that benefits from its simplicity and objectivity."
Jezebel noted that some of the most uplifting moments featured mothers discussing their sons' desire to purchase sexual services. Writing for Bitch Flicks, Erin Tatum, a reviewer with
cerebral palsy, said: "Ultimately, the audience can recognize that there’s a great deal of intersectionality in the way that both sex workers and disabled people are policed and shamed about their sexual expression. Rachel reminds us that the two groups can work together to lessen collective stigma." Notably, the film has also been shown at both the Australian Capital Territory Legislative Assembly, Canberra and Parliament House, Sydney. Wotton also briefed MPs in
Adelaide before a March 2012 screening of the film as part of a broader debate about the decriminalisation of the buying of sexual services in states beyond New South Wales, and a specific call by South Australia
Dignity for Disability MP
Kelly Vincent for disability services funding to pay for access to sex therapy or a prostitute. == Selected screenings ==