Whether trying to convey passion, tension, or plain old comedic relief, the physical act of intimacy is a highly effective plot device for movies and television. As far as the era of streaming goes, Netflix delivers with a slate of titles that are equal parts funny, erotic, and head-over-heels romantic. From classic shows like Sex and the City to eccentric coming-of-age sagas like Sex Education , scroll ahead to find the 25 best sexy shows you can stream on Netflix right now.
Premiering in , Sex and the City revolutionized how female friendships and sexuality were depicted on screen. Sure, it definitely has its failings and injustices when you look at it through a more modern lens, but it also encouraged generations of women to take ownership of their own pleasure. Think about it. Those strict social codes meant that even small gestures, like a stolen glance or the brushing of one gloved hand against another, are bursting with desire and sexual tension.
Very hot sex ensues. Outlander really set a new standard for feminist onscreen intimacy, especially in the earlier seasons and especially in the areas of female sexuality and consent.
The chemistry between actors Sam Heughan and Caitriona Balfe certainly helps it along. The teenage years might not have been the sexiest time in our lives. Actually, it was mostly awkward as hell. Every character gets a story arc to explore gender, sexuality, fantasies, and relationships in a truly accepting, nonjudgmental way.
This iconic, admittedly-a-little-cheesy-now show was memorable for so many reasons. Another bingeable treasure from Darren Star. Carlo and Margherita are a seemingly happy couple, but cracks begin to form when suspicion and temptation creep into their lives. In this Italian drama series, both partners have to wrestle with their desires and the consequences of their actions. Oh, and in the first episode, there are, like, four sex scenes in 40 minutes.
