Sex

Sex(Ed) is an insightful and engaging documentary film directed by Brenda Goodman in 2014, and features notable names such as Dr. Tara McPherson and Dr. Carol Queen as commentators. The documentary takes a critical but light-hearted approach to exploring the oft-taboo subject of sex education. In its thrilling duration, the film investigates how sexual education has evolved over the years in the United States and its impact on the society. It encourages conversations about sex and sexuality, posing thought-provoking questions to viewers about the way sex education is perceived and taught.

The film commences with attention-grabbing elements from old-fashioned instructional videos. Audiences are shown an array of sex-ed films from the past, as far back as the 1900s. Through these films, Goodman exhibits the historical changes in societal attitudes towards sex education, revealing how it has transformed from being a public health concern in the early 1900s, to a moral issue in the 1950s, and then to an emphasis on abstinence in the 1980s and 90s.

Goodman invites the viewers to not only chuckle at the quaintness of the old instructional films but also to comprehend the multitude of ways in which they encode cultural norms and expectations. There are lessons embedded in these videos about what is normatively "right" and "wrong" and about aspects of sexual behavior that aren't purely biological such as gender norms, societal roles, marital expectations, and facets of engagement.

The documentary features several interviews with educators, sociologists, students, and parents, contributing to a broad perspective on the importance and challenges of sex education. Insights from figures like Dr. McPherson and Dr. Queen highlight the sociological and psychological aspects of sex education, thereby deepening the conversation and lending credibility to the narrative.

Dr. Tara McPherson, known for her work on feminism, race, and digital media, brings to table thought-provoking discussions on how sex-ed films are not just about sex, but they also reflect society's attitudes towards gender, race, and morality. She elucidates how these films have shaped and have been shaped by cultural and political customs, demonstrating the intersectionality of sex education with other societal constructs.

In parallel, Dr. Carol Queen, a sexologist and sex-positive feminist, brings an in-depth understanding of human sexuality. She delves into the need for comprehensive sex education that is inclusive of all sexual orientations and gender identities, underlining the critical role education plays in promoting healthy and consensual sexual practices.

Sex(Ed) provides an excellent representation of the diversity that exists in America’s classrooms. Goodman takes us on a journey from New York to Alabama to San Francisco, capturing the cultural, regional, and political distinctions that influence the teaching of sex education. It deconstructs the many dilemmas that educators face when tackling sex ed, from religious objections and cultural taboos to the far-reaching impact of policies.

Sex(Ed) accomplishes a powerful undertaking in shedding light on various aspects of sex education, including facts and falsehoods, honesty and censorship, fears and misconceptions. However, it doesn’t just stop at the critique. It highlights the importance of this subject in promoting open dialogues about human bodies, relationships, and consent. The film makes a compelling case for a deliberate, comprehensive, and empathetic approach that equips young people with relevant knowledge rather than leaving them in the dark.

The film, while informative, doesn't shy away from controversy or difficult questions, and it challenges viewers to contemplate their conceptions about sex education. Sex(Ed) carries an elemental message – one that suggests the need for reform in the way we approach and discuss sex education. In doing so, it audaciously brings forward an open dialog on a topic that often gets suppressed under the weight of embarrassment and stigma.

In conclusion, Sex(Ed) is a razor-sharp, humorous, and morally engaging documentary that provokes its audience to think about sex education in a new light. It is an eye-opening exploration of the cultural, political, and educational forces that shape the discourse about sex. A must-watch for educators, parents, and anyone interested in understanding how sex education reflects on our society’s values and attitudes.