Molly Manning Walker’s directorial debut, “How to Have Sex,” presents a daring and thought-provoking narrative. This captivating drama revolves around the journey of three adolescent girls as they embark on a summer getaway in Greece, seeking adventure, liberation, and sexual exploration. However, their plans take an unforeseen and ominous twist when they become entangled with a group of older boys whose motives are far from innocent.
This movie provides an authentic and honest depiction of the ups and downs of teenage life, delving into the topics of friendship, sexuality, consent, and trauma. It fearlessly presents the messy and uncomfortable aspects of sex, while avoiding any glorification or exploitation. Additionally, the film addresses the sensitive subject of sexual violence and its consequences, handling it with sensitivity and avoiding sensationalism or preaching.
In this Flixtor film, the young cast delivers impressive performances, with Mia McKenna-Bruce standing out as Tara, the main protagonist. Throughout the movie, McKenna-Bruce portrays Tara’s dramatic transformation with nuance and emotion. Initially a confident and adventurous girl, Tara becomes a victim of a brutal assault and faces the challenge of dealing with its aftermath. Alongside McKenna-Bruce, Lara Peake shines as Skye, Tara’s best friend, who tries to offer support while harboring her own secrets. Enva Lewis also showcases his talent as Em, the third member of their trio, who experiences feelings of exclusion and betrayal.
The film’s vibrant cinematography, by Nicolas Canniccioni, not only portrays the beauty and spirit of Greece but also contrasts the bright, sunny sequences with the tense, gloomy ones. The film’s overall craftsmanship is excellent. Jakwob’s music for the movie does a great job at evoking tension and excitement. Molly Manning Walker wrote a strong screenplay for the movie that skillfully combines drama and humor to produce an engrossing story that holds the audience’s attention.
“How to Have Sex” presents a refreshing take that is both thought-provoking and impactful. It delves into significant and timely subjects, making it a powerful drama. This movie will captivate not only those who appreciate coming-of-age narratives but also anyone who appreciates intricate characters and intense situations.