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Sarah here, teaching English around the world. Living life and seeing things.
Minx is here, and it’s giving us a great combination of humour, feminist exploration, and a (sometimes not so) nostalgic look at how the world views women. The series premiere stars Ophelia Lovibond, Jake Johnson, Jessica Lowe, Idara Victor, Oscar Montoya, and Lennon Parham.
No Places To Go To See a Dong
The history of erotic magazines for women has been one that is rough and in the shadows. While erotic magazines for men have been a staple of newsagents around the world for time immemorial, women’s erotica has had to tread a difficult path. Some of the more popular titles, such as Viva and Playgirl, have had rocky histories that have been short-lived in some cases.
However, they persevered and created something that not only discussed the rising feminist ideology of the time but also offered something that would allow women and queer people to explore their sexuality in their own way. And this is the story of Minx.
First, we meet Joyce (Ophelia Lovibond), an earnest but sometimes uptight young woman who has a dream to bring her vision of feminism to the world. While it’s not exactly wrong, it’s not the most inclusive, and she has a habit of getting carried away with her thoughts. Lovibond plays the character perfectly, and although she is a little insufferable at times, we want her to succeed and do well. Lovibond embodies a woman who is on a mission and is giving everything to her dream. We are behind her 100%, even if she is a little misguided at times. The character feels so natural and hits the comedic moments really well.
Then, enter Doug (Jake Johnson). He seems slimy, obnoxious, and everything you’d expect from a man who makes dirty magazines. However, he has something different about him and seems to know what Joyce’s magazine could be, and really believes in her. Johnson is again perfect in this role, and he comes in with humour from the start. He also comes across as a little unbearable at times, but he’s still charming and pulls you in.
What’s Our Peanut Butter?
One of the best parts of the show is the supporting characters, and Episode 1 “Not Like A Shvantz Right In The Face” (Directed by Rachel Lee Goldenberg and written by Ellen Rapoport) introduces us to some of our new favourite people. Bambi (Jessica Lowe) is a personal favourite. She’s set up to be a “blond bimbo”, but her character goes so much deeper. She is fierce, free, and has no shame in who she is or wants to be.
Another favourite is Richie (Oscar Montoya). He is similar to Bambi in the way that he has no shame in who he is and is just himself. These characters are the building blocks that will help our main characters move forward, and they bring not only the biggest laughs but the biggest character developments. Episode 1 gives us a great introduction to a whole host of characters as well as the beginning of a strange but beautiful partnership.
Who These People Really Are
Episode 2 “Au Revoir, Le Double Dong” (Directed by Rachel Lee Goldenberg and written by Ellen Rapoport) brings us an insight into the world of advertising. Doug (Johnson) and Joyce (Lovibond) are at odds once more with who and what should be advertised in Minx. Doug understands his audience and what they want, while Joyce wants something more.
A shining star in this episode is Joyce’s sister Shelly (Lennon Parham). She’s straight to the point and tells Joyce exactly what she needs to hear at every opportunity. Parham hits the mark every time but also delivers some of the bigger points of the show. Parham delivers her lines so naturally and perfectly, that it feels like we are part of their conversation.
This episode really introduces the idea of sexuality and how it fits into the feminist ideal. While this is an issue that has been discussed since the beginning, it’s here that it really comes to light. While Joyce tackles her own issues with what a modern woman wants, Doug is really opening her eyes to how the world works. While there are some funny moments, the main theme hits you hard and swift. While it’s a feeling that many women have experienced, there’s a win for everyone that will leave you feeling a sense of pure joy.
Find Your Talent with Minx
The first two episodes of Minx are a great introduction to the series. We really get a feel for the characters and the journeys they want to take. While at times the humour can be a little too on the nose and sometimes misses the mark, the message behind everything makes up for it. It’s an interesting start to a show that has a lot of potential.
Minx Episodes 1-6 are now available to stream on HBO Max.
Sarah here, teaching English around the world. Living life and seeing things.
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