Exploring the Rite of Passage: The Impact of 'How To Have Sex' on Consent and Education
A deep dive into the journey of 'How To Have Sex,' the award-winning film by director Molly Manning Walker, and the impact it has had on the conversation about consent and its use as an education tool in the UK.
The Journey of 'How To Have Sex'
The award-winning film 'How To Have Sex,' directed by Molly Manning Walker, has made waves in the film industry and beyond. It tells the story of a rite of passage summer holiday gone wrong for one teenage reveller, delving into the themes of consent, coercion, and the impact of youthful experiences. Manning Walker, a two-time BAFTA nominee and the director of the film, reflects on the unexpected universal appeal of the movie and its journey from the Sundance Film Festival to the Cannes Film Festival, where it won top prize in the Un Certain Regard competition.
Mia McKenna-Bruce as Tara, the lead in "How To Have Sex."
The film has sparked conversations about consent in the UK and has found itself being used as an education tool, addressing important topics related to sexual experiences and the societal pressures faced by young people. With a successful theatrical run in the UK and an upcoming US release, 'How To Have Sex' has become a catalyst for discussions around consent, coercion, and the experiences of young individuals on holiday.
Lara Peake, Enva Lewis, Mia McKenna-Bruce as three British teens on holiday in Malia, Greece in "How To Have Sex."
The Impact on Society and Education
The impact of 'How To Have Sex' extends beyond the film industry, sparking conversations and reflections on societal pressures, consent, and the experiences of young individuals. Manning Walker shares her insights on the film's resonance with audiences around the world, highlighting the diverse interpretations and personal connections made by viewers from different cultural backgrounds. The film's exploration of rite of passage holidays prompts a deeper examination of the societal pressures faced by young men and women, shedding light on the cultural norms and expectations surrounding sexual experiences.
Director Molly Manning Walker and actress Mia McKenna-Bruce pose during the 76th Cannes Film Festival, May 19, 2023.
Furthermore, the film has been used as an education tool, aiming to teach consent and initiate discussions in classrooms. Manning Walker recounts a powerful experience of bringing the film into a school to teach consent, where students engaged in discussions about assault and the importance of understanding consent. The film's impact on education and its ability to empower students to discuss sensitive topics reflects its significance as a catalyst for positive change and awareness.
Reflections and Future Conversations
As 'How To Have Sex' prepares for its US release, the director reflects on the film's journey and the meaningful conversations it has sparked. Manning Walker emphasizes the importance of examining societal attitudes towards consent and the pressures faced by young individuals, urging for a deeper understanding of the cultural influences on young people's experiences. The film's message of kindness, empathy, and the need for open communication resonates as a call for a more supportive and understanding society, especially in the context of intimate experiences and relationships.
Looking ahead, 'How To Have Sex' prompts future conversations about consent, coercion, and the societal expectations placed on young men and women. The film's impact on education and its ability to empower students to engage in meaningful discussions about consent sets the stage for a continued dialogue on creating safer and more respectful environments for young individuals. As the film prepares to reach new audiences, it stands as a powerful catalyst for change and a reflection of the societal shifts needed to support and empower the next generation.
