How to Have Sex

This impressively naturalistic and quietly devastating exploration of consent focuses on sixteen-year-old Tara as she takes a trip to Malia with her best friends, the envy-prone Skye and the empathetic Em, to celebrate the completion of her exams - and, perhaps, to distract her from the anxiety surrounding her soon-to-be-released grades - by drinking, clubbing and maybe, just maybe, hooking up with some strangers. The trip holds extra importance for her, as she's the last of her friends to still be a virgin and feels the need to rectify this before she returns back home (largely due to societal pressure pushed by her peers - or, rather, one in particular). Strikingly realistic in its every aspect, the picture plays out like an authentic coming-of-age slice of life and keenly cuts to the core of a feeling all too familiar with so many of us, particularly women. While it does generally have a fly-on-the-wall vibe, it also makes use of distinct cinematic techniques to draw you wholly into its hero's headspace. It's an intimate, often incredibly uncomfortable picture that has a lot to say and isn't afraid to say it. It doesn't so much start a conversation as it does make its point and let you chew on it; the ethics surrounding its central issues are pretty black and white, and they aren't intended to be debated so much as communicated. Indeed, 'How To Have Sex (2023)' actually has an implied 'Not' in the title. Whether it reflects someone's own experience and makes them feel seen or challenges someone's behaviour and (hopefully) makes them be better in the future, the film will likely resonate deeply with everyone in its audience. Its power grows the longer you have to sit with it, and its true brilliance is only really evident in retrospect. It's a powerful picture, for sure, arguably because of - not in spite of - its general subtlety. It's essential viewing for, well, pretty much everyone, really.

One of the main things I disliked about this film was the title, not because of some misguided belief in the censoring of the word "sex", but because of the conversations that ensued, many times, after telling a friend about the astonishing film I had just seen at the cinema.

Besides that minor inconvenience, the film showcased a phenomenal range of talent in all aspects of the film. Molly Manning Walker shows off her modern and evocative cinematography to truly connect the audience with the characters. Walker also wrote the script which is equally brilliant and manages to capture the essence of youth in each of the characters. Not only that, but she also shows no hesitation in creating a realistic depiction of youth which is extremely difficult to find in films today. Walker has created a film which weaves the innocence of three young adults into a story of loneliness and despair that is strikingly relevant to the world today.

It is obvious that this film is deeply personal to not only Walker but also to the three actresses that played the main parts. A story with such tangible emotion cannot be written without a deeply personal idea at the core. The film will put you in the shoes of three young women and will tell you exactly how women feel today.

The performances of the three young adults was masterful. It was like they weren't even acting. The slow decline of Tara's outward personality to a lonelier and more isolated one is showcased brilliantly by Mia McKenna-Bruce. The comedy that flourished at the start of the film was perfected by the young women's ability to so accurately display the emotions that run through every person's head at that age.

Disturbing and hilarious this film left me in my seat a few minutes after it finished. Unlike any other film I have ever seen it will take you on a journey that you've already had before but always wanted to experience again, the journey of youth, and maybe you'll realize you actually, probably, and in most circumstances, do not want to experience that journey again.

A year of school has finished it's time for fun, so with your two best friends together you all run, to a place close to the sea, a place in Greece where there'll be glee, unaware of an event to make you glum. To begin with you're a vibrant, glowing girl, taking everything that's thrown in a great whirl, dancing, swimming, drink too much, entertainments what you clutch, but it's not too long before nightmares unfurl. As events accelerate and tides get strong, grabbing hold they take you to a place that's wrong, where advantages are taken, disbelief when you awaken, it's with shock you travel home, where you belong.

An outstanding performance from Mia McKenna-Bruce.

Title: A Poignant Journey of Self-Discovery: "How to Have Sex"

"How to Have Sex" takes audiences on an intimate exploration of the lives of three British teenage girls as they embark on a rite-of-passage holiday filled with drinking, clubbing, and relationships. This coming-of-age film captures the essence of what should be the best summer of their lives, while delving into the complex and often difficult subject matters that young women encounter.

The movie's ability to tackle such hard-hitting themes in a very poignant manner makes it a standout piece. It fearlessly dives into the emotional struggles and personal challenges faced by the girls, creating a raw and authentic portrayal that resonates deeply with the audience. This authenticity, however, could make the film a tough watch for many women due to its triggering content.

The superb acting from the cast lends a natural and believable quality to the characters. Their performances add to the film's overall realism, allowing viewers to connect with the characters on a profound level. This authenticity brings a certain level of relatability, making their experiences all the more impactful.

In "How to Have Sex," the journey of self-discovery is portrayed with a great deal of realism. The film doesn't shy away from depicting the complexities of relationships, friendships, and personal growth that come with the territory of teenage life. This realism is both a strength and a potential challenge, as it might hit too close to home for some viewers.

Rating a movie like "How to Have Sex" is undoubtedly a challenging task. While the film's authenticity and exploration of hard subjects are commendable, its potential to be triggering for many women must also be taken into consideration. For those who can handle its deeply personal narrative, the superb acting and realistic portrayal will likely leave a lasting impression.

I loved the movie.. As a woman who was a teenager once, I (and almost all of us) know these kind of uncomfortable situations whether they're small or more serious.. The movie's done a wonderful job reflecting Tara's emotions, how she felt and why she couldn't do more than she did.. The final may be dissapointing for some, I even wanted more but it's ok.. It's just like real life.. Mostly.. If I'd make a final with a couple of words, I'd say to the young girls&women if I may (which you already know) just say 'no'! Even if you're not sure of what you want, wait till the time you're %100 sure. Wait.. Say no.. Learn how to say 'NO' and overcome your shyness, talk to others, the shame part belongs to the other person, doesn't it?