The Reel Review
When she learns she has terminal Stage IV cancer, Molly leaves her emotionally disconnected, broken marriage to embark on a sexual journey that leads not only to greater sexual awareness but also love and self-acceptance. Michelle Williams, Jenny Slate and Sissy Spacek star in this dramedy series based on a podcast about actual events.
After some hilarious sexcapades (bondage, dom/sub roleplay, sex toys, car sex and puppy play) in the first few of the eight half hour episodes, we learn that Molly’s sexual exploration has a much deeper motive – she is attempting to reclaim her sexuality after being sexually abused by her mom’s boyfriend when she was a child. Williams and Slate both give raw, heartfelt performances that upend audience expectations about how dying people should behave as well as the definition of a soulmate. (Spoiler: the soulmates are the two best friends.) Spacek is also phenomenal as Molly’s estranged mother who eventually re-enters her life, as is Rob Delaney (Deadpool & Wolverine, Catastrophe) as Molly’s next-door neighbor.
Granted, some of the sexual hijinks are intentionally silly and definitely more funny than sexy, but the final episode is exceptional – one of the most beautiful, optimistic and informative descriptions about the process of dying ever shown on television. Those who already have experienced it with a loved one will be blown away, as will those who have not yet experienced this sad but beautiful process. Prepare to cry – a lot.
REEL FACTS
• Dying for Sex is based on the podcast from Nikki Boyer, who is played by Jenny Slate in the series. Molly Kochan died in March 2019 at the age of 45.
• In addition to serving as Executive Producer of the series, Nikki Boyer also has a small part, as Molly’s cousin Sheila.
• Michelle Williams and Jenny Slate both appeared in 2018’s Venom.
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