If you’re looking to expand your understanding of human sexuality, relationships, and pleasure, there is no better medium than the documentary.
These essential sex documentaries and docuseries go beyond simple titillation, offering honest, educational, and often deeply moving perspectives on everything from the science of the orgasm to global romantic traditions.
We’ve compiled a list of the best sex documentaries that are critically acclaimed and highly sought after by viewers everywhere, giving you a comprehensive queue of must-watch material.
The Principles of Pleasure (2022)
A must-watch mini sex docuseries that centres the science of women’s pleasure, with zero shame and a lot of clarity. It takes on the orgasm gap, medical myths, historical silencing, and the way gender, race, and power shape who gets to feel good, and who gets left behind. This is truly one of the most essential sex documentaries for understanding modern feminism and pleasure science.
Sex, Explained (2020)
The perfect chaser to ‘The Principles of Pleasure.’ This accessible sex docuseries from Vox offers bite-sized, scientifically grounded episodes on major topics like attraction, fertility, birth control, and the historical and biological drivers of human sexuality. It’s a great way to deepen your knowledge on the core mechanics of sex and desire.
Sex, Love & Goop (2021)
Couples on the brink of disconnection, dysfunction, or just plain boredom, work with sexologists, somatic practitioners, and energy workers to rediscover intimacy. Despite the Goop branding, it’s unexpectedly grounded. There’s bodywork, breathwork, trauma healing, and a lot of nervous system talk. This series stands out among sex documentaries for its focus on somatic and emotional healing.
How to Build a Sex Room (2022)
Interior designer Melanie Rose helps couples build bespoke sex rooms, from soft sensual spaces to hardcore BDSM dungeons. But what makes this one of the best sex documentaries is the emotional work that happens along the way. As couples explore fantasies and communication, they also confront shame, fear, and long-held beliefs about what sex is “supposed” to look like.
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Kink (2013)
Aligning with the emotional depth found in the Sex Room discussions, this docuseries moves past sensationalism to explore the reality of the BDSM community. It features open, candid discussions about fantasy, consent, and navigating power dynamics from the perspectives of those deeply involved in kink, highlighting how intimate practices are integrated into daily life.
Christiane Amanpour: Sex & Love Around the World (2018)
The renowned journalist travels to various countries—from Japan and Lebanon to Ghana and Germany—to explore how different cultures approach love, sex, marriage, and gender roles. This docuseries provides a crucial, non-Western-centric lens on the topic, making it a globally significant sex documentary.
XConfessions (2016 – ongoing)
Though technically on a paywalled platform (Lust Cinema), this ongoing project by erotic filmmaker Erika Lust turns anonymous confessions into gorgeously shot short films. Behind-the-scenes segments and interviews offer a fascinating look at ethical porn production and the power of storytelling in desire.
Circus of Books (2019)
This heartwarming documentary about sex and family tells the story of an elderly Jewish couple who secretly ran a legendary bookstore and gay porn distribution hub in Los Angeles for decades. It’s a surprisingly tender look at how sex work and adult media can foster a powerful sense of community and acceptance during difficult times, offering a unique perspective on the industry’s history.
The Last Taboo (2013)
This powerful feature sex documentary confronts an area often excluded from mainstream discussions of sex: sexuality and physical disability. It follows several individuals as they share their perspectives on affection, desire, and navigating relationships, emphasizing that the right to feel, touch, and connect is universal.
Private Practices: The Story of a Sex Surrogate (1985)
This groundbreaking 1985 sex documentary by Kirby Dick follows the sensitive and controversial work of sex surrogate Maureen Sullivan and two of her clients. It offers a disarming and compassionate look at men struggling with intimacy and connection, showcasing a radical form of sexual therapy designed to overcome deep-seated fears and inadequacy.
Iso
Iso is a writer and filmmaker based in East London. She is passionate about all things erotic and leads a sexy, shame-free life in hope that she can inspire others to do the same. Originally from a Northern seaside town, she is naturally drawn to the best things in life: candyfloss, trashy karaoke bars and heart-shaped sunglasses.
