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Sex Education - Review



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 developments and all doubts and awkwardness that comes 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. Otis is shy and can't deal with his mother's evident lack of boundaries. 

Most teenager's parents would never approach some topics the light way Otis' mum can. Despite his discomfort, Otis has more information about sexuality that most of his colleagues. With Maeve's 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, open way. 

You can spot a couple of not so accurate pieces of information 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 talk about it. 

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

Positive development


Recently, Netflix presented us with 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 approach too lightly, others too clumsily, in the first season.

Otis and Ola 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, 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 open debate about a large number of topics in a way no other show could do it. They approach polemic topics, with naturalism and sensitivity. There is no shame, no euphemism, and more importantly, no topic is out of bound. They manage to make even the more explicit scenes sweet and enjoyable.

You can see plenty of allusions to teenage American movies, in scenarios and costumes. They were all built in 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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