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Sex Education - Review


Sex Education


Sex Education is a show about 16-year-olds and their lives in high school and at home. Most importantly, it is about their sexual development and all the doubts and awkwardness that come with it.  

Otis and his sex therapist mother


Otis (Asa Butterfield) is the only child of a sex therapist, played by a brilliant Gillian Anderson (The Crown). Otis is shy and can't deal with his mother's evident lack of boundaries. 

Most teenagers' parents would never approach some topics the light way Otis' mum can. Despite his discomfort, Otis has more information about sexuality than most of his colleagues. With Maeve's (Emma Mackey) help, he becomes some sort of unofficial sex therapist for his classmates.

Throughout his appointments, we get familiar with the school community. Many different topics around sexuality are explored in a funny, light, and open way. 

You can spot a couple of not-so-accurate details throughout the show, but the goal is not to inform. The whole show is all about de-stigmatizing sex and showing the benefits of openly talking about it. 

Sex Education confronts you with important discussions about masturbation, homosexuality, STDs, sexual dysfunctions of different levels, abortion…

Positive development


Recently, Netflix released the second season of Sex Education. Better than the first one. It has a faster action and more depth. Some topics - such as abortion - were approached too lightly, others too clumsily, in the first season.

Otis and Ola (Patricia Allison) deepened their relationship. With more experience, he learns that theory and practice are very different things. 

This season has a more significant focus on parents and teachers as well. It shows that adults also have doubts and challenges. At some point, you realize that parents are as confused and in need of instruction as students.

The show seems now more mature, growing with its characters.

Communication and discovery


Plenty of shows and films before focused on the same targets. Puberty, first love, and first sexual experience are common ground in teenage-oriented shows. Yet, few of them are as realistic and charming as Sex Education. It offers us a practical rather than a romantic point of view.

The show also explores the communication issues between teens and their parents. Communication is the key in all circumstances. 

Humor and Sensitivity


Sex Education managed to spark debate on a wide range of topics in a way no other show could. They approach polemic topics with naturalism and sensitivity. There is no shame, no euphemism, and more importantly, no topic is out of bounds. They manage to make even the more explicit scenes sweet and enjoyable.

You can see plenty of allusions to American teen movies in the scenarios and costumes. They were all built for a comic purpose, which leaves us more open to what comes next.

Sex Education is a good piece of entertainment. It addresses tough topics in a relaxing, funny, and sensible way.    

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