Certain to generate conversation, if not controversy, the feature length documentary Sex Magic, Manifesting Maya (USA, 80 min, 2010) will be making its second appearance at the SPIRIT Film Festival. The tightly crafted, aesthetically appealing film directed by Jonathan Schnell and Eric Liebman is not only replete with gorgeous views of man and nature, but takes an intimate look at sexual healing, tantric sex and polyamory from the perspective of the practitioners. A film about sex with a surprising romantic twist, Sex Magic focuses on Baba Dez, a sacred sexual healer who has had sex with over 1,000 women in the course of his practice.
The film enjoyed an enthusiastic response at last year’s festival, with five screenings, and is back this year with a special guest: Baba Dez will give a talk (in English) on sacred sexuality, accompanied by a screening of the film on November 3, 2011 at 18:45 at the Tel Aviv Cinematheque.
Dez speaks openly about his practice, beliefs, and feelings in the film, which follows the tortuous path of his love for Maya, a sacred sexual healer initially drawn to tantric sex through her encounter with Baba Dez. When she leaves him, repelled by what she calls his “promiscuity,” he’s devastated and will do anything to get her back, including sex magic. For those who are mystified by the term, sex magic, as described in the film is the belief that sexual orgasm generates a force that can be used to manifest dreams and desires. In other words, Dez has sex with other women in the hope of bringing Maya back into his life.
Interviews with Dez, Maya, other practitioners of sexual healing and tantric sex as well as clients who come to the Sedona Temple for healing, with an occasional comment from Dez’s parents, compose the majority of the film, interspersed with scenes from sessions, conferences and communing with nature. The gaze is intimate, yet not uncritical. Some of the interviewees express their criticism of the way in which Dez practices, one stating quite bluntly: “If I were a Daka I would not use my cock.”
Opening with a scene that shows Dez taking a phone reservation from a practitioner who wants to book a room at the Temple for a session, it is very clear that Dez is running a business, and a successful one. Some come seeking healing from past experiences of abuse, while others come with more mundane, yet no less urgent needs. One client seeks help in achieving orgasm; another prospective client explains that he would like to open up more sexually. One of the striking aspects of the film is the manner in which sex is discussed openly and comfortably, without an attempt to titillate or provoke.
Engaging, clever, and at times amusing, the film raises questions about the place of sex and sexuality in our lives, the use of sex in therapeutic situations and the connection between love and sex. Tickets may be purchased online or call: 03-6060800 ext. 0.
