S and X Review: Stylised as S&X (SとX), this Japanese drama offers a thoughtful, intimate look at sex and intimacy through the eyes of sex therapist Ichito Shimotori, whose compassionate exploration of a wide range of personal issues will leave viewers warm and fuzzy. The series, based on Kisei Tada’s manga (SとX ～セラピスト霜鳥壱人の告白～), is, however, about something much more than just sex and intimacy – it’s a deeper look into honest and open communication, self-worth and the difficulty of opening up with another person about something private.
The series stars Kento Nakajima, Yuko Araki, Ryota Miura, Sawako Fujima, Aoi Nakamura, Rinka Kumada, Sayaka Yamaguchi, Yūsuke Santamaria, and Shiro San, and is directed by Shogo Kusano.
S and X Review
S&X Is Less About Sex and More About Human Connection
Intimacy isn’t a gimmick in S&X, and neither is it just sex. There’s a lot of complexity in what makes humans want to connect emotionally and physically, and the Netflix series does a fantastic job exploring everything that leads to the formation of that connection. While it may be a taboo subject, something that people might think to be quite simple, there’s a lot of nuance and complications for a healthy and fulfilling sex life to exist between adults. Considering the difficulties of modern life and the expectations that we put on each other, there’s a lot that happens in our minds that we have to overcome to truly be happy.
The series explores these connections, keeping the act of lovemaking to the side. It’s beautifully discussed, exploring the mental obstacles that need to be addressed before thinking of the physical ailments. The series explores these concepts through stories of a variety of people, including that of Ichito himself, who are all going through something or the other. Each case brings emotional complexities to the clinic, and the series puts forth how a sex therapist’s job isn’t just to talk about sex positions!
The show discusses several heavy topics such as anxiety, trauma, insecurity and societal expectations without turning them into shock value. It’s like watching friends talk about their issues – it’s warm and easy to understand, and the understated humour and slight awkwardness help make the series so very human. The compassion that the series shows gives the story an emotional core unlike any other, with Ichito proving to be a fantastic protagonist whom anyone can open up to with ease.
Kento Nakajima Gives Ichito a Quiet Complexity
Speaking of Ichito, Kento Nakajima does a fantastic job with his character, making him a compassionate, humorous and approachable person who understands the quiet anxieties and the taboo that everyday people have to live with every day. His character thrives on restraint over emotional outbursts, and the actor does a great job of showcasing every emotion with a warmth that you expect from a doctor. Of course, there’s something more to explore when it comes to him as well, highlighting that despite being so understanding of others, it’s often difficult to overcome trauma that you endure yourself.
The other cast members are equally enjoyable to watch, completing the world of S&X and giving it the warmth that is required. While struggling and flawed in their own way, the series showcases them as kind individuals who also stumble sometimes. The clinic itself becomes a character, turning into a place where people can be themselves and talk about things that they would usually keep hidden.
The Romance Adds More Than Expected
Ichito and Yumi’s relationship isn’t just another love story, but an exploration of how difficult it can be to carry a romantic relationship when two people carry heavy emotional baggage. There’s nothing out of the ordinary or extreme in their romance, oftentimes quiet and sweet, but their traumas and difficulties showcase that, despite wanting to connect beyond friends, it sometimes becomes difficult when people can’t handle their problems and grief.
S&X Treats a Taboo Subject With Surprisingly Little Sensationalism
One thing that S&X does fantastically is how it handles a taboo subject like sex. While being so common in the world, society oftentimes looks down upon anything related to sex and makes it difficult for people to seek help. The series does a great job of balancing these subjects and creating a safe space for multiple topics to be discussed. It also doesn’t go down the extremely jokey path with the stories and keeps it professional yet lighthearted. This makes watching the show relatable and approachable, while reminding viewers to be empathetic and open-minded.
Where S&X Stumbles
Despite doing a great job with the subject matter and bringing forth relatable characters we want to watch throughout its 7-episode runtime, S&X sometimes stumbles in some episodes with its pacing. There are several moments when the series will feel stagnant, and not every story will feel equally compelling. At times, it takes forever to get to the point as well. The series is best watched when it’s intimate and character-focused, and so public scrutiny and external drama can feel out of place and unnecessary at times.
Final Verdict
In the end, S&X is a really nice and heartfelt watch that does a great job of handling its delicate subject matter. Its unusual premise is showcased with directness and empathy, making it an easy yet impactful watch. Overall, this one’s thoroughly engaging and entertaining.
Watch S&X on Netflix. Did you like watching the show? Let us know in the comments below!
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