Sharon Maguire Directs 'The Joy of Sex' Comedy with Colin Firth and Julianne Moore
Laura Linney, David Tennant, and Jason Watkins also star in the film, which has already pre-sold to dozens of territories worldwide.
“The irony is that the book was an unashamed sex guide for loving couples, yet it was created out of a somewhat tempestuous triangle.”
- Director
- Sharon Maguire
- Starring
- Colin Firth, Julianne Moore, Laura Linney
- Genre
- Comedy
Sharon Maguire is directing a new film titled The Joy of Sex, with a cast led by Colin Firth, Julianne Moore, and Laura Linney, according to Deadline. The project is a love triangle comedy about the creation of the famous 1970s sex manual.
Filming began in the UK this week. The script was written by Maguire and Lise Mayer.
What is the movie about?
The film charts the true story behind the 1972 book The Joy of Sex. It focuses on the unconventional romantic trio of author Alex Comfort (Firth), his wife Ruth (Linney), and her best friend Jane (Moore). Their decade-long relationship in the suburbs of North London served as the laboratory for the book's content.
"The irony is that the book was an unashamed sex guide for loving couples, yet it was created out of a somewhat tempestuous triangle," director Sharon Maguire said. "Dissecting this triangle lies at the heart of the movie. It’s a story which is surprising, moving and very funny."
Who else is in the cast?
Firth, Moore, and Linney are joined by David Tennant, Jason Watkins, and Vicky Krieps. Producers include Alison Owen and Debra Hayward of Monumental Films.
What is the release status?
The film was a hit with buyers at the Cannes market. It has pre-sold to the UK, 23 territories across continental Europe and Africa, Latin America, Australia, and New Zealand. Lionsgate will distribute in the UK, with Wildbunch handling German-speaking territories. Global sales are being handled by Embankment Films.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'The Joy of Sex' based on a true story?
Yes. The film is based on the true story of how the bestselling 1972 sex manual The Joy of Sex was created. It focuses on the real-life romantic relationship between author Alex Comfort, his wife, and her best friend.
Where is the film being shot?
Principal photography for The Joy of Sex began in the United Kingdom this week, according to the report.
Who is distributing the movie?
Lionsgate has secured distribution rights for the United Kingdom. Wildbunch will distribute the film in German-speaking territories. Sales for other regions are being handled by Embankment Films.
What other films has Sharon Maguire directed?
According to the report, Sharon Maguire previously directed Bridget Jones’s Diary and Bridget Jones’s Baby.
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