Gregg Araki's 'I Want Your Sex' Marks a Sweet Turn for the Provocateur

Gregg Araki's first feature in 12 years, 'I Want Your Sex,' hits theaters this weekend, marking a surprising shift toward optimism for the 66-year-old director known for his provocative, nihilistic films. The movie stars Cooper Hoffman as Elliot, a rudderless young man who takes a job with a Millennial contemporary artist, Erika Tracy, played by Olivia Wilde, who becomes his dominatrix. Despite the expected Araki elements—latex, dildos, and a body in a pool—the film ultimately argues that sex and vulnerability shouldn't be scary. Araki discussed the film's evolution, which began as a spec script in 2012-2013 about a female intern and male boss, but was flipped after he became uncomfortable with images of violence against women. The script went through 10-11 drafts, with the Gen Z sexlessness theme emerging after a 2016-2017 article. Araki also addressed his career, noting his work on the TV series 'Now Apocalypse,' which he wrote and directed 10 episodes of, and his desire to create a TV show since 'Twin Peaks.' He expressed a preference for more positive content given the current political landscape, and a shift in his musical tastes toward pop artists like Robyn and Charli XCX, though he still appreciates Nine Inch Nails. The film's soundtrack includes a song by Oliver Sim of The xx. Araki reflected on his career with no regrets, citing 14 appearances at Sundance and a standing ovation at Cannes.