Ep 3. Sex

Absolutely Fabulous returns with an unforgettable third season and serves up a tantalizing treat with episode 3, titled Sex. As always, the irreverent and ever-glamorous Edina Monsoon (played by Jennifer Saunders) and her equally outrageous friend, Patsy Stone (played by Joanna Lumley), navigate the chaotic world of fashion, celebrity culture, and their own peculiar friendship.

In this episode, the series dives into the themes of romance, dating, and sensuality with the usual mix of laughter and social commentary that fans have come to love. Edina, with her trademark enthusiasm for all things fashionable and fabulous, quickly becomes embroiled in a series of hilariously misguided attempts to update her love life. As she flips through her dating options, she comically reflects on the challenges that come with modern relationships, particularly in a world dominated by social status and the cult of youth.

The antics kick off when Edina decides it's time to shake things up, emboldened by the notion that she needs to explore her romantic side more actively. Not one to shy away from the spotlight, she embraces a rather enterprising approach to dating, enlisting the help of Patsy, who, of course, has her own unorthodox ideas about love and attraction. Their dynamic makes for a comedy of errors as they concoct outrageous schemes to attract potential suitors, often leading to comedic misadventures.

As the episode progresses, viewers are treated to a range of eccentric characters introduced through Edina’s dating escapades. From awkward encounters that result in cringe-worthy moments to glittering parties that push the boundaries of decency, each interaction showcases the absurdity of the dating game as it pertains to Edina and her fabulous lifestyle. Her inability to accept the realities of aging and her over-the-top persona often lead to misunderstandings that will leave audiences in stitches.

Meanwhile, the episode cleverly juxtaposes Edina’s disastrous forays into romance with the ever-steadfast character of her daughter, Saffron (played by Julia Sawalha). Saffron's dry wit and sensible demeanor provide a stark contrast to her mother's chaotic world. As Edina tries to navigate the complexities of love and sex, Saffron remains a voice of reason, often incredulous at her mother’s antics. Their interactions highlight the generational divide and offer moments of poignant humor, as Saffron attempts to guide her mother away from her most outlandish decisions.

Patsy, who embodies the ultimate carefree spirit and is forever in pursuit of the next big thrill, serves as a comedic counterpart to Edina’s flawed romantic aspirations. Her enduring belief in the power of allure and style drives many of their escapades, causing the audience to appreciate her unique perspective on love and attraction. Their endless banter and witty exchanges are purely entertaining and emphasize the closeness of their friendship, even when they find themselves in increasingly ludicrous situations.

The episode also touches on broader cultural observations on sex and relationships, including commentary on societal pressures, the significance of appearances, and the lighthearted absurdities that often accompany searching for love. With a keen sense of timing, the creators of Absolutely Fabulous manage to balance humor with insightful critiques, prompting both laughter and reflection among viewers.

Visually, "Sex" captures the quintessential 90s London luxury scene, featuring fabulous fashion statements and over-the-top party scenes that have become hallmarks of the show. The extravagant lifestyle of Edina and Patsy is on full display, reinforcing their commitment to maintaining an air of unrestrained opulence, even as they grapple with the realities of their romantic pursuits.

As the episode progresses, the hilarity peaks and valleys, with each scenario escalating into a delightful whirlwind of chaos. There’s an infectious energy that permeates every interaction, and fans will find themselves laughing along with the characters as they navigate the precarious landscape of love and friendships.

Ultimately, "Sex" is an episode that encapsulates the essence of Absolutely Fabulous: a tongue-in-cheek exploration of the joys and absurdities of life, love, and friendship through the lens of outrageous humor and heartfelt moments. Whether you're a long-time fan or new to the series, this episode promises to deliver laughter and an unforgettable experience through the lens of its iconic characters. Edina and Patsy remain as hysterically irreverent as ever, reminding viewers that despite the uncertainties and misadventures in love, life is always worth embracing with style and humor.