Here at One Track Mind, we’re all about finding harmony between sex and positive mental health; and making sure we see this in TV and film is incredibly important. So in this series we’ll be checking in on our favourite media, assessing the level of aftercare and continuous consent found in sexual scenes. And how could we forget the presence and importance given to LGBTQIA+ sex and relationships storylines; something woefully lacking in prevalent pop culture? Get ready for our take on how inclusive, diverse and honest your favourite films and programmes really are. There’s one question on our mind: how’s your head?
Hear us out. The Clit Test ranks Sex Education (season two) as a fail due to scenes where adult women having sex climax from penetration alone (think teachers Ms Sands and Mr Hendricks going at it on a desk). It is true that even the most openly diverse and progressive shows often fall into the trap of representing sex solely via penetration, and until this depiction changes, we probably won’t see much enlightenment on the part of straight men with regard to clitoral stimulation. However, for its attention to a range of sexualities and preferences, and overall determination to represent sex accurately and unsqueamishly, we’ll give Netflix this one.
The penetration problem in Sex Education is no isolated incident; it was the reason that our source of inspiration, Frances Rayner, created The Clit Test in the first place. Porn and sex in the media are primary sources of sex education for many (we’re talking learning about sex, not simply biology) and it’s important that each industry catches up to the fact that sex isn’t just all about the penis anymore. And in shows that are aimed specifically at young people, who are discovering a world of hormones, changes and new feelings for the first time, honesty around sex is more important than ever.
Despite its not-so-sexy slip-up, both series of Sex Education do a lot for the representation of diverse and inclusive sex education, advocating for female masturbation and exploring sexual identity. After having proven its transgressive status back in its first season with episodes dedicated to masturbation, anxieties around sexuality and pubic hair, we’re excited to see what the upcoming season three will bring. Sex Education – you have our stamp of approval.
Our verdict? It’s a pass.
Next up in the ‘How’s Your Head?’ series: Friends