“Sex, Love & Goop”: What Did I Just Watch?

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In the debut episode of “Sex, Love & Goop,” actress Gwyneth Paltrow asserts that she created her famously eccentric lifestyle brand, Goop, to uncover innovative ideas to enhance our lives. This has previously included items like jade eggs, psychic vampire repellent, and coffee enemas. Now, she presents what she openly describes as “a show about sex!”

It’s unclear when Gwyneth became our go-to sex expert, but she has brought on board Alexia Brandt, a self-proclaimed specialist for couples who have lost their intimate spark. Brandt’s credentials primarily seem to stem from her background, as we’ve been conditioned to think that discussions about sex are best led by an experienced woman with an engaging accent. However, neither Gwyneth nor Brandt is actually engaging in sexual practices themselves. Instead, they host discussions with couples convinced to participate in a sex show with someone who once claimed negativity could alter water’s structure. The couples then navigate various therapy sessions with instructors ranging from mildly absurd to outright bewildering.

The show does attempt to showcase diversity, featuring couples of different backgrounds, including a Black couple, a mixed German/Jamaican couple, and a pair of lesbians, while the only straight white couple is in their sixties—a group that prompts frequent commentary on the taboo nature of older adult intimacy.

Naturally, the show delves into energy healing, discussing “yonis” while seemingly enforcing a ban on vibrant colors, as if Gwyneth herself might disapprove of anyone donning anything too bright. Viewers are treated to blindfolds, sex toys, and positions that require an impressive level of flexibility and open-mindedness that the average viewer may not possess.

In the pilot, we meet Sam and Laura, a couple struggling with differing libidos—he wants it now, while she prefers a slower approach. They work with a compassionate therapist named Mia, who is a somatic sexologist. Mia, with her earnest demeanor, hopes to change the erotic lives of viewers. However, her energetic methods could easily evoke memories of horror films for those unfamiliar with energy practices.

The German/Jamaican couple, Felicitas and Zach, have a somewhat strained relationship. Their sessions with Brandt seem to highlight their animosity, which adds an unintended comedic element. In another set of sessions, we meet Joie and Mark, whose aging sexual concerns have been teased throughout the first few episodes. Under the guidance of Amina, a tantra expert, they are instructed to crawl around acting like animals, which she claims is her favorite exercise because it is so bizarre.

The show also touches on body positivity, with segments encouraging participants to confront their insecurities in front of mirrors. This emotional moment contrasts sharply with the earlier comedic antics, leaving viewers both laughing and then suddenly moved.

Another quirk of “Sex, Love & Goop” is its tendency to break the fourth wall. Viewers are reminded of the production crew through various interruptions, which detracts from the show’s overall intimacy and focus.

The central question remains: is this an exploitative spectacle meant for laughs or a sincere effort to improve sexual relationships? The answer is convoluted, as the show oscillates between humor and poignant moments, leaving audiences both entertained and bewildered—wondering whether Gwyneth is a savvy entrepreneur or merely playing a role.

“Sex, Love & Goop,” starring Gwyneth Paltrow, is currently streaming on Netflix.

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In summary, “Sex, Love & Goop” is a unique blend of humor and emotional depth, navigating the complexities of intimacy while leaving viewers questioning the authenticity of its intentions.