How to Have Sex

It's many decades since I was a teenager, and over 10 years since my own kids navigated that period for themselves, but if this really is representative of what it's like for the current generation (and I guess I have to believe it is, at least somewhat), then it's kind of sad, I think. I wish them well.

As a film, this takes its time to find a balance, IMHO, but the core characters come through pretty well by the end, although personally I found some of them seriously underwritten (e.g. The lesbian couple) and would have preferred them either silent or absent, or given more to do. However, this is a first-time filmmaker, so perhaps that's a bit harsh.

Don't expect a fun time.

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.

We don't get enough films like 'How to Have Sex'. Perhaps because they are hard to promote and sell, but when they are done right they are so good that it shouldn't matter. I love the understated nature and the ultra-realism this film possessed. Everything just hits so much harder because of that.

The film has a terrific sense of dread. For a long time to begin with you are just watching these characters party and have fun. But you always know that something more sinister is just around the corner. You don't know what it is or where it's coming from exactly. You just know it's coming.

Something else I really liked about this one was that it has a lot of respect for its audience. It doesn't tell you everything. It lets you make up your own mind on what exactly a character is thinking/going through. There is some terrific acting that helps this. Often the camera will just remain on a character's face for an extended period of time and watch her go through a range of emotions when dealing with something. It was really interesting to watch.

I think film discussion groups would have a field-day with this film. There's a lot to break down and because nothing it really spelt out it leaves a lot to interpretation. This was a good one. 7/10.

I was curious about this film as many people seemed angry about the trailer that this seemed to be a female inbetweeners kinda film but went extremely dark, I watched it last night and can't help but feel torn on it.

Whilst it felt really natural almost like a documentary on itv2 the characters were slightly on the harder to like side to start but you warm to them especially Tara, who seems genuinely young and immature.

The two incidents of attacks, were believable and natural rather than an aggressive style you'd see in darker films, it was clever to do it that way, to show that there are levels to it.

Whilst I hate how many people volunteer to get into states where they lack control with alcohol it is part of society, but I'm still amazed when smoking gets so much attention, drinking which causes more crime/damage/death gets little attention.

What ruined it from being an important film was the ending, where a quick chat seemed to undo it's impact on her, personally think it should've ended on a sad note as potentially these incidents are life ruining. So think whilst idea was good, it chickened out of following through.

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?