After viewing the DVD version of Sinclair Institute’s “The Better Sex Guide to Anal Pleasure,” I have mixed emotions concerning the film. Several aspects of the film made it a great candidate for anyone wishing to explore their sexuality and delve into the anal arena. However, other aspects left me unsatisfied with the content presented.

Sinclair has the wonderful ability to take sexual education, sexually therapeutic techniques, as well as erotica, and blend them into films which serve to stimulate as well as satisfy one’ sexual appetite and craving for knowledge and creativity. This film was narrated by professionals, one PhD in particular, but also portrayed real couples demonstrating various techniques.

However, my partner and I both agree that the narration and educational aspect seemed to greatly overpower and almost drown out the creativity and erotica being presented. Unlike other Sinclair films where the couples were given greater attention with respect to demonstrating positions and techniques then being interviewed for their reaction to the experience, we felt this film did not present from such an angle. Rather, the narrator spoke through the majority of the erotic scenes which ruined our arousal and the sensual nature of the experience.

Another aspect of the film that left something to be desired was the lack of time taken to explain and explore the acts each couple was performing. Anal play is something that, initially, many people find taboo, awkward, and sometimes painful. While the film did take a few moments to explain the importance of communicating with your partner and taking things slow, we felt the film did not devote enough attention to following its own advice. Some scenes seemed rather rushed, almost to the point of requiring a second view to be beneficial.

 Since my partner is bisexual, we were curious to see if the film would appeal to the LBGT (Lesbian, Bisexual, Gay, and Transgender) community. Unfortunately, we both felt it would not. Anal play can be highly pleasurable if performed correctly. For same sex couples, particularly gay males, anal intercourse can be a source of great connection and satisfaction. However, the film focused on anal sex/play as it related to strictly heterosexual couples. This does leave the path open for Sinclair to produce an additional film or series of films which focus on LBGT sex and sexuality.

 One related issue that was wonderful to see explored was anal sex on males. The film did not shy away from giving in-depth coverage of techniques, positions, and education as it related to males and anal sex. Initially certain stigmas were approached and disproved. Next the film showed males pleasuring themselves as well as allowing their partner to please them through rubbing, licking, fingering and penetration via toy. Again, this aspect of the film was refreshing and appreciated.

 Overall, I feel this film would be a great place to start if intrigued by or curious about anal play. While it lacked an in-depth approach to education as well as erotica, this is what makes it a wonderful tool for the beginner. While I found other Sinclair films to be more beneficial and satisfying, I am still impressed by Sinclair’s professional approach combined with the tasteful yet uncensored erotica they produce.