Netflix has added "S&X" to its international programming, a Japanese live-action series based on Kisei Tada’s manga. The romantic drama, starring Kento Nakajima as a sex therapist, tackles the often-taboo subject of sex and intimacy while navigating complex personal traumas.
The series, comprising seven episodes, features Ichito Shimotori, a 32-year-old sex therapist who runs the Shimotori Clinic with his nurse Yuta Saikawa and administrative assistant Marin Natsume. Despite Japan’s societal discomfort with open discussions about sex, Ichito and his team provide sympathetic care for a range of issues, from sex addiction to lingering traumas. Ichito’s unconventional and dedicated approach aims to find tailored solutions for each client.
However, Ichito grapples with his own buried pain and past trauma, which he shares only with his therapist, Sion Kaze, and mentor Professor Daisuke Kurusu. His personal journey intensifies when his childhood first love, Yumi Ichinose, reappears 17 years after he abruptly cut contact. This reunion forces Ichito to confront his own healing process.
Further complicating Ichito's life is the public scrutiny he faces, partly due to Yumi's prominent role as a news reporter and pushback from medical school dean Norio Toyohara. The series illustrates Ichito's realization that he must address his own issues before he can effectively help others, leading him toward personal growth and acceptance.
Comparisons have been drawn to Western shows like "Sex Education" and "Masters of Sex," as well as Japanese series exploring mental health and social commentary such as "Shrink: Psychiatrist Yowai" and "March Comes In Like A Lion."
"S&X" is noted for its unique and comprehensive handling of sensitive topics, particularly within its Japanese cultural context. The series is praised for its considerate and thought-provoking exploration of intimacy and sexuality, themes that are often considered taboo in both Japan and the West. The characters are described as well-written and multi-layered, avoiding caricature and balancing humorous moments with earnest efforts to destigmatize sex therapy.
Kento Nakajima's performance as Ichito Shimotori is highlighted as a central strength, with the actor praised for his sincerity, charm, and vulnerability in portraying the therapist's internal conflicts and trauma. The supporting cast also delivers strong, believable performances, contributing to the show's immersive quality. The series further benefits from compelling storylines and strong cinematography.
"S&X" offers an unflinching look at societal judgments concerning sex, queer relationships, gender roles, and workplace harassment in Japan. The show is considered a fascinating watch for those interested in quality television that addresses sensitive topics with respect and care, regardless of familiarity with non-English media or Japanese culture.
While the series contains sexual content in every episode, it is noted that the level of graphic content is not as high as might be expected for a show with its title. Nonetheless, it is intended for mature audiences.
The series concludes the first episode with a confession from Ichito: "I don’t have the right to love anyone. I don’t even want to imagine myself having sex. I became a sex therapist… because I hate sex."