When I think of sex education films, my mind jumps back to fourth and fifth grade, with those cheesy, boring, and extremely prudish (naive) films that were supposed to teach us a thing or two about our bodies. I still think to myself, 'Who the hell thought that'd be something we want to watch to learn about our bodies?' This question does not come to mind with Tristan Taormino's "Expert Guide to Oral Sex: Cunnilingus".

First of all, the case is a photo collage of the inner hotness ready to come, in a way quite literally, and it boasts a contemporary sophistication of design that will make those less inclined toward pornographic films feel more at ease. I should know. I don't like most porn. The whole aesthetic disgusts me, leading to ruckus laughter and mockery. (Seriously. Who the hell makes those noises? I've never growled at anyone while eating their pussy. No one has ever hissed at me. What is this crap?) So, right away you know you are seeing a different kind of sex education/pornographic film.

Even if you know a lot of the information already shared in the film - such as anatomy, tips to take it slow or warm up the clitoris before dive bombing it, etc. - it helps to be reminded of these things and more, which Justine Joli demonstrates wonderfully on Ariel in front of a small workshop audience. The tone of the film is one of patience and encouragement - for you; your partner(s); for exploration with different techniques, toys, and positions; for honesty and communication.

I also enjoyed the interviews with each individual member of both couples prior to their scenes. It allowed the viewer to observe the background psychology of participants in the film as well as the opportunity to see just how individualized sexual pleasure can be. When it came to the safer sex feature, seeing Cindy and Jack, a real couple, put various techniques to use made using gloves or plastic wrap seem less... ridiculous. Anything that encourages people to have fun, feel sexy, AND protect themselves gets a million brownie points. Instantly!

The balance between educational and pornographic is a little awkward, with the generic educational film background music and the highly polished real couples that seem to be bordering on typical porn beauty. But only a little. It didn't strike me as being disruptive or repulsive. Far from it. It's all very tastefully done.

Currently I am trying to think of a way to convince the local library that they should arm themselves with this excellent piece of instructional material. Wish me luck.