Gregg Araki’s latest film, I Want Your Sex, starring Olivia Wilde and Cooper Hoffman, has premiered at the Sundance Film Festival, showcasing a bold take on sexual dynamics in the workplace. Set against a backdrop of contemporary art, the film explores the provocative relationship between a domineering boss and her eager subordinate, bringing both humor and a sense of liberation to its themes of intimacy and consent.
Wilde plays Erika Tracy, an assertive contemporary artist whose fashion choices, including a striking see-through dress and stiletto heels, set the tone for the film’s playful exploration of sexuality. Hoffman portrays Elliot, her naive assistant, who finds himself entangled in a web of erotic adventures that challenge his understanding of relationships and boundaries. The film combines elements of screwball comedy with a modern twist, reminiscent of classics like The Shop Around the Corner and His Girl Friday, albeit with a distinctly contemporary edge.
Araki, known for his sex-positive sensibility, presents a narrative that resonates with a younger audience grappling with the complexities of modern relationships. In a striking opening scene, Elliot is found stumbling from Erika’s opulent mansion in pink lingerie, only to discover his boss floating in her pool. This shocking moment sets the stage for a police investigation led by Margaret Cho and Johnny Knoxville, adding an unexpected layer of intrigue to the film.
The film’s vibrant aesthetic, characterized by Araki’s signature use of bold colors, enhances its comedic elements. As Elliot navigates his role as Erika’s assistant, he is often tasked with painting provocative art pieces, such as papier-mâché phalluses, reflecting the film’s irreverent take on contemporary art. Erika’s assertion that “contemporary art is a scam” embodies Araki’s critique of mainstream culture, allowing for both satire and celebration of artistic expression.
Wilde’s portrayal of Erika is a standout, as she delivers a campy performance that exudes confidence and authority. Her character’s proposition for a no-strings-attached sexual relationship with Elliot presents a compelling dynamic, further complicated by Elliot’s existing relationship with his girlfriend, played by Charli xcx. The film navigates themes of sexual fluidity and consent, often blurring the lines between empowerment and exploitation.
While the script, co-written by Araki and Karley Sciortino, may not fully develop the intricacies of Erika’s motivations, it effectively captures the essence of youthful exploration in a post-#MeToo era. Hoffman brings a relatable charm to Elliot, embodying a character who is both eager and uncertain, reflecting the challenges faced by a generation shaped by changing attitudes toward sex and intimacy.
Despite its provocative content, I Want Your Sex prioritizes humor over heavy drama. The film encourages audiences to embrace their desires and test their boundaries without the weight of judgment. Araki’s goal appears to be clear: to inspire a repressed generation to approach sexuality with a sense of playfulness and curiosity.
As the narrative unfolds, the plot may veer into chaotic territory, yet the film’s commitment to irreverent escapism remains intact. Araki successfully engages with contemporary anxieties surrounding sex, allowing viewers to laugh alongside the characters rather than delve into darker themes often explored in erotic cinema.
Ultimately, I Want Your Sex serves as a celebration of sexual liberation, offering a lighthearted perspective on the complexities of modern relationships and the freedom to explore one’s desires. With its combination of humor, vibrant visuals, and engaging performances, the film is poised to resonate with audiences seeking both entertainment and a fresh outlook on intimacy.
