For some fascinating reason, Gen Z is scared of sex. They don’t want to talk about it, barely want to experience it, and definitely don’t want to see it on screen. I’ll never forget how the internet almost exploded when Florence Pugh’s breasts were shown in “Oppenheimer.” It felt very akin to an ankle being shown in Victorian times.
Hearing the scandalized, depraved cries of the younger generations, Gregg Araki uses his new film, “I Want Your Sex” to remind all of us that it’s okay to be a freak. In fact, the freakier the better. Riddled with a quirky flair, this film is guaranteed to leave you doubled over in laughter and dying to kiss the person next to you.
In desperate need of a job, the boyish Elliot (Cooper Hoffman), accepts a position working for art mogul and sex icon Erika Tracy (Olivia Wilde). Soon, Tracy makes Elliot her sexual muse and the two explore a BDSM relationship, with Tracy in charge. But, Elliot doesn’t realize just how in over his head he is in this world of sex, blackmail, betrayal and death.
Araki doesn’t miss a beat in this film, constructing a unique world with such interesting characters that you can’t help but keep watching. Jam packed with humor, the film also gives space for authentic conversation about sexual relationships, generational beliefs, and what it really means to be in love.
She isn’t alone though, Cooper Hoffman manages to match her freak. With a naivety that’s beyond charming, Hoffman keeps the audience invested in his journey as he navigates Tracy’s twisted world. Hoffman gives the audience someone to root for, while also giving us plenty of reason to criticize his choices. Alongside Wilde, Hoffman is magnetic and a raw reflection for the Gen Z viewers.
Olivia Wilde is firing on all cylinders here. She not only seduces young Elliot, but the audience as well, luring us into her trap right alongside him. Electric, beguiling and laugh out loud hilarious, Wilde is no-holds-barred in this performance, operating on a level never before seen from her. With a playground of content given from Araki and co-writer Karley Sciortino, Wilde takes full advantage and knocks it out of the park.
Hoffman and Wilde are joined by a wonderful cast of oddball side characters, featuring Charli XCX, Daveed Diggs, Chase Sui Wonders and Mason Gooding. Together, these characters help the stylistic and zany world feel lived in and authentic.
Moving with a confidence that’s admittedly admirable, Wilde’s character unabashedly desires sex in a way that’s confrontational for those who are repressing their own desires. This discomfort is reflected in Elliot, who has suddenly had his wildest fantasies fall in his lap. Through this character, Araki is able to confront Gen Z’s seemingly puritanical view of sex in an enlightening and comical way.
The film also manages to tackle the patriarchal and generational institutions that currently run our society. Not only does this film challenge the standard dynamics between men and women in the workplace and bedroom, but it’s able to open a conversation about those topics without coming off as preaching or condescending.
Full of laughter, horniness, and stylistic flair, “I Want Your Sex” will leave you laughing until the lights come up. The film is available in theaters nationwide beginning July 31st, 2026.
“I Want Your Sex” opens nationwide July 31.
