S&X has a plot that is provocative, though deliberately. But underneath all of that is a story that will get you intrigued in the show just a few minutes into starting it. The plot revolves around Ichito Shimotori, a sex therapist who spends his days helping people confront intimate problems that they are too shy and embarrassed to discuss openly. Based on the manga titled S and X by Kisei Tada, the series explores a subject that remains a taboo topic. Rather than making the topic a source to grab attention from the viewers by sensationalising, S&X attempts to get into the deeper aspects of emotional complications around intimacy, relationships, shame, loneliness, and whatnot. I am sure just by reading the summary, some of you might find the plot to be quite mature. And trust me, so is the execution of S&X.
Ichito approaches his patients with utmost respect and a non-judgmental state of mind. It is no surprise that a profession like his isn’t really looked up to well in the society he lives in. Yet none of this bothers him, and he stays dedicated to making this topic comfortable for people to talk about freely. S&X also shows us a side of the profession we rarely come across. It makes us realize that the stigma is not only around the topic but also the therapists like Ichito, who face this regularly. S&X teaches us to be open about our feelings.
And what I liked was the fact that the makers of S&X chose to develop a series around the issue that is, was, and will remain relevant amongst people globally. As a result, anyone can watch the show. It shows us how people are ill-informed when it comes to sex and how much sex education is needed not only to gain awareness but also to talk about it openly.
The series has created a great opportunity for character development. Ichito Shimotori is such a well-written, determined, balanced role. A plot like this requires the lead to be eye-catching in his professional ways. Right from the start till the very end of the show, we see significant development in his role. The world from his point of view isn’t an easy one, especially when the very reason for your bread and butter is questioned every now and then.
The pacing of S&X is brisk. It doesn’t slow down for no reason. Wherever things have slowed down, they are all intentional. Some deep conversations take place in the show, which make you rethink and question in many ways. As a result, the show is a good watch. The taboo topics have been beautifully covered and conveyed. It is rare to find shows that deal with sensitive topics made and executed so well. And mind you, talking about sex and the issues isn’t an easy task. The makers of S&X surely succeed in this aspect. So dear readers, if you want a mindful watch, S&X is what you should get your hands on.
Final Score - [8/10]
Reviewed by - Neerja Ch
Follow @NeerjaCH on Twitter
Publisher at Midgard Times