This weekend marked the conclusion of a significant chapter on screens, yet the underlying issue remains as relevant as ever. The final season of 'Sex Education' (2019-2023) premiered on Netflix on September 21st, 2023. Back in 2019, the series quickly captivated the audience, not only due to its taboo theme but also because it explores a subject that remains a primary source of pleasure for human beings. What truly resonates with the audience is the way this theme is depicted.
The sex scenes in 'Sex Education' were choreographed with mastery by the production team. Off-screen, the production team ensured the safety and comfort of the cast members by hiring an intimacy coordinator to oversee these scenes and provide support to the actors. On the show, the cast is not actually naked; instead, they use skin-coloured underwear and socks to cover up. In some instances, genital prosthetics are used, and the type of liquid used may vary.
On screen, 'Sex Education' quickly captivated viewers with its enchanting and diverse cast of flawed characters and storylines. These elements, combined with proper representation, fostered a strong sense of relatability between the characters and the audience. The show's avoidance of exaggerations is worth noting, as it not only strengthens the viewer's attachment but also serves as a critique of the prevalent issue of porn addiction among the younger generation.
Sex Education is a major means of communication with young voices. It addresses the challenges faced by the current generation in navigating online relationships, including issues related to dating apps, lack of communication, and ghosting. Notably, it fearlessly tackles societal taboos, including the one in the title that forms the basis for many of its plots. The show emphasizes the importance of sexual education in raising awareness, learning about contraceptive methods to prevent undesired pregnancy, and gaining access to adequate information for health and development—a vital tool in preventing poor health outcomes, including violence and abuse.
In its first season, 'Sex Education' introduces the characters. Moreover, the show's themes continue to be relevant, particularly in the ongoing discussion about the importance of therapy during adolescence when individuals often feel unheard. 'Sex Education' addresses multiple issues by exploring characters' dilemmas, ranging from abortion to instances of sexual assault, worthwhile to mention that it does not demonise any of them.
The show focuses on female pleasure, a topic that is often overlooked in high school science classes and condemned socially, whether discussing heterosexual or lesbian relationships. It encourages girls to embrace their bodies and prioritize what makes them feel comfortable, empowered, and stimulated. The show explores themes of female aging and solo maternity through the character of Jean. In season four, it delves into the themes of male pleasure, masculinity, and homosexuality, challenging the often erroneous assumption that these concepts are inherently intertwined.
Beyond the world of sex, 'Sex Education' also explores identity. It follows Eric's journey as a Christian Nigerian gay individual. The show delves into the transgender journeys of characters Roman and Abbi, as well as Cal's experience as a non-binary person dealing with gender dysphoria, the process of transition, and the financial challenges it entails. Additionally, it portrays Isaac and Aisha's journeys as disabled individuals in a world full of challenges and discrimination. The representation of masculine affection is also depicted through the friendship between Eric and Otis.
Sex Education' skilfully plays with and subverts known tropes from school cliques, gives space to repressed minority groups. For instance, it features the jock and popular boy, Jackson Marchetti, who is Black and the son of two mothers. The queen bee, Ruby, defies expectations as she hails from humble origins and Abbi who is transgender. However, the show also incorporates some traditional elements, such as redemption arcs for characters like Michael and Ruby in the season 4. Additionally, it presents certain characterizations that some viewers may find problematic, including a bully who is a hidden bisexual (Adam), a portrayal of a 'dumb blondie' (Aimee), a strong female character (Maeve), and a portrayal of a villainous empowered woman (Headmistress Hope Haddon).
In the season finale of 'Sex Education,' we witness the development of many characters, the introduction of new ones, and the accelerated and somewhat forced growth of some in order to wrap up their storylines. However, it's worth noting that the show portrays a level of psychological awareness in its young characters that may not be entirely accurate given their age, and it notably lacks traditional 'villain' characters. This approach is intriguing in an era of cancel culture, where discouraging female rivalry is prioritized over promoting sorority, but villains play a crucial role in driving the narrative forward.