Lilly Singh’s latest cinematic venture, premiering at SXSW 2024 and now streaming on Paramount+, invites viewers into the tumultuous world of “Doin’ It,” a sex comedy with a premise that seeks to explore the intersections of culture, sexuality, and self-discovery. As the film unfolds, it challenges the audience to consider whether its audacious approach is ultimately worth the watch this weekend.
At the heart of “Doin’ It” is Maya, portrayed by Singh herself. After a humiliating incident regarding her sexuality leads her to return to her conservative roots in India, Maya’s life takes a significant turn. Years later, she returns to America not as the confident woman she hoped to be, but as a 30-year-old virgin with scant sexual experience, thrust into a world that has evolved without her. This premise sets the stage for her unexpected career shift from aspiring tech mogul to substitute sex-ed teacher, tasked with navigating the complexities of contemporary sexual norms while simultaneously educating her students.
The film’s narrative draws parallels with classic teen sex comedies from the late ‘90s and early 2000s, such as “American Pie” and “The 40-Year-Old Virgin.” These films, often laden with humor and awkward situations, laid the groundwork for a genre that sought to tackle adolescent sexuality. However, while “Doin’ It” attempts to revive this tradition, it finds itself grappling with themes that feel both outdated and overly simplistic.
Singh’s performance as Maya stands out, showcasing her ability to command the screen and deliver comedic moments with finesse. Despite the film’s narrative shortcomings, her portrayal adds a layer of authenticity to a character navigating the cultural dichotomy of American sex-positivity versus Indian conservatism. The film’s comedic value emerges from these contrasts, yet it sometimes resorts to extreme stereotypes, presenting hypersexualized Western ideals on one side and rigid sexual repression on the other.
Critically, “Doin’ It” attempts to shed light on the often puritanical nature of sex education in American high schools, a topic that remains relevant today. However, it misses the opportunity to delve deeper into the cultural implications of such a clash. The interactions between Maya and her lesbian best friend Jess, played by Sabrina Jalees, serve as a reminder of the complexities of friendship and sexuality, yet Jess’s characterization primarily revolves around sexual discussions, reducing her to a one-dimensional figure in Maya’s journey.
Ultimately, the film’s exploration of Maya’s virginity, a central theme, feels underdeveloped and becomes an afterthought amidst a whirlwind of comedic scenarios. The intent behind “Doin’ It” is commendable, aiming to provoke thought and discussion about sexual education and cultural norms. However, its execution often detracts from its potential, leaving viewers yearning for a more nuanced narrative.
In conclusion, while “Doin’ It” offers moments of levity and a promising premise, it ultimately leans too heavily on stereotypes and lacks the character depth necessary for resonance. For those seeking a fresh take on sexuality and cultural identity, this film may fall short of expectations. Thus, the recommendation is clear: SKIP IT. Though there are glimmers of humor and insight, the film does not deliver the impactful experience it aspires to achieve.
Reviewed by: News Desk
Edited with AI assistance + Human research
