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Writer's pictureStephen Yanni

How to Have Sex (2024) - Coming Up Short on Coming-of-Age

Rating: ★★☆☆☆ (2/5 Stars)

Released 02-02-2024

Watched 04-20-2024

Reviewed 04-23-2024

Rented on iTunes



"I didn't even get a tattoo or anything on this holiday."


"How to Have Sex" is a film that, despite its intentions, falls short of delivering a compelling narrative or meaningful message. As a coming-of-age drama, it attempts to explore themes of friendship, self-discovery, and the perils of youthful indiscretion. However, its execution leaves much to be desired, earning it a lackluster two-star rating.


One of the film's major shortcomings lies in its portrayal of characters and their interactions. The acting performances are lackluster at best, failing to evoke genuine emotion or empathy from the audience. The characters come across as shallow and underdeveloped, making it difficult for viewers to invest in their journey. Additionally, the dialogue suffers from poor delivery and clarity issues, hindering comprehension and engagement.


While the film tackles serious topics such as peer pressure, sexual assault, and substance abuse, its treatment of these themes feels superficial and melodramatic. Rather than delving into the complexities and nuances of these issues, "How to Have Sex" resorts to heavy-handed moralizing, reminiscent of an afterschool special. This approach diminishes the impact of the film's intended message and undermines its potential for meaningful exploration.


Furthermore, technical flaws detract from the overall viewing experience. The audio quality is notably subpar, with muddled dialogue and distracting background noise. This further compounds the difficulty of following the storyline and connecting with the characters. Combined with mediocre cinematography and editing, the film fails to immerse audiences in its world, leaving them feeling disconnected and disengaged.


Ultimately, "How to Have Sex" struggles to find its footing as a coming-of-age drama. While it may have noble aspirations to educate and enlighten its audience, its execution falls short of expectations. With its lackluster performances, simplistic narrative, and technical deficiencies, the film fails to leave a lasting impression. Viewers are advised to approach with caution and manage their expectations accordingly.


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