Watch The Surprising History of Sex & Love

The Surprising History of Sex & Love is a 2002 documentary film that explores the origins, evolution, and cultural significance of human sexuality and romantic relationships. Hosted by Terry Jones, the film features interviews with experts in the fields of anthropology, archaeology, history, and psychology, as well as animated reenactments and artistic renderings of ancient artifacts and customs.

The film begins by tracing the earliest evidence of human sexual behavior, from the handprints and erotic symbols found in prehistoric caves to the fertility goddesses and phallic sculptures of ancient civilizations. It delves into the varied taboos, rituals, and laws surrounding sex and marriage throughout history, such as the polygamous customs of Egypt and the sacred prostitution of ancient Near Eastern cultures.

The film also examines the role of religion and mythology in shaping attitudes towards sex and love, from the creation myths of various cultures to the religious prohibitions against homosexuality and premarital sex. It explores the ways in which cultural norms have evolved over time, with the advent of literacy, urbanization, and the rise of the scientific revolution.

Throughout the film, Jones brings his trademark humor and wit to the subject matter, often playing off of the absurdity and contradictions of human sexual behavior. He poses provocative questions and challenges conventional beliefs about sex and love, such as whether monogamy is truly natural or whether one can have a fulfilling sex life without romantic love.

The film features insights from a range of experts, including Joann Fletcher, a renowned Egyptologist, and Bill Dever, an archaeologist specializing in the history of ancient Israel. The interviews are informative and engaging, offering both historical context and contemporary relevance to the subject matter.

One of the strengths of The Surprising History of Sex & Love is its ability to contextualize sexual behavior and romantic relationships within broader social, cultural, and historical trends. It shows how these concepts are not static or universal but rather shaped by the particularities of time and place. In doing so, it challenges viewers to think critically about their own assumptions and values surrounding sex and love.

Overall, The Surprising History of Sex & Love is an entertaining and informative documentary that offers a rich tapestry of insights into the human experience of sexuality and romantic love. Through its exploration of cultural diversity, historical change, and contemporary issues, it provides a nuanced and thought-provoking perspective on this fundamental aspect of human nature.

The Surprising History of Sex & Love is a 2002 documentary with a runtime of 49 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.1.