The Olivia Experiment

The Olivia Experiment is a uniquely compelling and comedic film released in 2012. This indie gem is characterized by its wit, creativity, and honesty, propelled forward by the sincere performances of the cast which includes Skye Noel, Jen Lilley, and Brett Baumayr. Directed by Sonja Schenk and written by Alexandra Komisaruk, the story skilfully explores themes of sexuality, identity, friendship and emotion, all while being wrapped in a good, hearty dose of comedy.

Skye Noel wonderfully embodies the role of Olivia Howell, a 27-year-old grad student who believes she's an asexual. An anthropology major who studies human sexual behaviour, paradoxically, she herself has no interest in sex - or so she thinks. She's a people observer, interested in their motivations, their inhibitions but struggles with understanding her own.

Unsure if her asexuality is her true identity, or just a fear of intimacy, her friends suggest a very hands-on experiment – having sex. Concerned about her lack of experience and the possibilities that may unfold, Olivia accepts the challenge, counting on the support of her close-knit circle. Among them is Felicia, portrayed by Jen Lilley, a high-strung film producer who is determined to document Olivia's sexual journey, hoping to unearth the complexities of human emotion and transformation.

Their chosen candidate for the experiment is the handsome yet charmingly goofy musician, Julian (Brett Baumayr). As the narrative advances, the dynamics between Julian, Olivia, and her team of well-intentioned, sometimes overly enthusiastic, friends gently devolves into a complicated entanglement, filled with awkward, humorous, and genuinely touching moments.

The film skilfully combines elements of indie drama and romantic comedy. It’s an exploration of the complexities of sexuality, the spectrum of human emotions and the quest for personal truth in an increasingly confusing world. The film stresses that gender and sexuality are not simply binary but are fluid, eclectic, and often puzzling. It stimulates open conversation about asexuality, a topic often overlooked in popular media.

In addition to its central themes, the film also addresses the landscapes of friendship, self-growth, first love and the difficulties inherent in navigating adulthood. It reminisces us of the confusion, challenges, and learning curves we might have experienced in our quest for self-discovery and sexual awakening.

At its heart, The Olivia Experiment is a story about bravery and acceptance - the courage to venture into the unknown, the confusion that follows, the hilarity of missteps, and ultimately, the acceptance of one's true self.

Skye Noel delivers a captivating performance, infusing life into Olivia’s character –making her quirky, sympathetic and relatable. Jen Lilley as Felicia is vibrant and effusive, her portrayal chock full of humour and energy. Brett Baumayr adds the perfect blend of wit and charm, completing the perfect ensemble with his performance as Julian.

Clever dialogues and outrageous comedic scenarios are splendidly balanced with heartfelt moments in The Olivia Experiment. The film strikes a remarkable balance of its narrative tones - from hilarious to awkward, to deeply emotional - often within the same scene.

The Olivia Experiment is as much an exploration of friendship, flawed humanity, and the misadventures of young adulthood as it is a discussion of sexuality. It's raw, it’s funny, it’s engaging and it is a breath of fresh air, in terms of both concept and storytelling. This original story manages to bring to the forefront the conversation about asexuality, diving into an area of sexuality that is often less understood or explored, wrapping it all up in a package of humour, awkward charm, and relatable realness.

Equal parts insightful and entertaining, The Olivia Experiment offers viewers a unique cinematic experience - one that is both enlightening and highly enjoyable. It's a must-watch for those who appreciate indie films with a rich storyline, complex characters, thought-provoking themes, and a dash of unconventional charm.