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Everything You Always Wanted to Know About Sex * But Were Afraid to Ask

Everything You Always Wanted to Know About Sex * But Were Afraid to Ask 1972

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Plot Summary

Read the complete plot summary and ending explained for Everything You Always Wanted to Know About Sex * But Were Afraid to Ask (1972). From turning points to emotional moments, uncover what really happened and why it matters.


The film opens with credits rolling over an enchanting scene filled with a multitude of white rabbits, all set to the lively tune of “Let’s Misbehave” by Cole Porter. This colorful backdrop introduces viewers to a series of seven whimsical vignettes, each delving into the absurdities of love, lust, and human desire.

“Do Aphrodisiacs Work?”

Set in the Elizabethan era, the jesting fool, played by Woody Allen, faces wrath from the king (Anthony Quayle), who finds his antics far from amusing. The plot thickens when our fool shadows the queen (Lynn Redgrave) into the gardens and unexpectedly becomes bold. From beyond the grave, the ghost of his father instructs him to pursue the queen. After acquiring an aphrodisiac from a sorcerer, which the sorcerer ominously warns may lead to his demise if discovered by the king, the fool succumbs to temptation and presents it to the queen. After she drinks it, her desires emerge, leading to a ludicrous scenario. Just as the fool tries to unfasten her chastity belt, the approaching guards ignite panic, resulting in a frantic struggle to conceal their compromising position. Ultimately, despite his best efforts, the king uncovers the fool and condemns him to execution.

“What Is Sodomy?”

Meanwhile, in the bustling practice of Dr. Ross, portrayed by Gene Wilder, an extraordinary visit from Armenian shepherd Milos Stavros (Titos Vandis) shocks everyone. Milos confesses his inexplicable love for a sheep he claims is named Daisy. Initially taken aback, Dr. Ross is drawn deeper into bewilderment when Milos reveals that he has already been intimate with her, with the sheep now perceived as distant. The bewilderment only escalates when Milos pleads for the doctor to mediating a conversation with Daisy, leading Ross down an increasingly twisted path of attraction to the very sheep he is meant to counsel. As Ross indulges in this absurd love affair, confusion ensues, stripping him of his family and profession, culminating in a pitiful scene of despair as he grapples with the consequences of his bizarre obsession.

“Why Do Some Women Have Trouble Reaching an Orgasm?”

In an Italian segment, Fabrizio (also portrayed by Woody Allen) faces disheartening intimacy issues with his wife Gina (Louise Lasser). After their marriage, Fabrizio’s expectations of passion are thwarted by Gina’s indifference. Desperation fuels his quest for understanding, leading him to confide in his priest to no avail. One serendipitous day, as they shop, Gina’s unexpected arousal transforms their relationship dynamic, igniting a series of risqué escapades in public venues that push the limits of societal conventions. The couple joyously embraces their newfound spontaneity, though Fabrizio’s fears of discovery loom large.

“Are Transvestites Homosexuals?”

In a humorous twist, Sam (Lou Jacobi) and Tess engage in a dinner with their daughter’s future in-laws. Sam’s compulsion leads him to sneak away and don his future mother-in-law’s dresses, amusingly unaware of the chaos that follows. As the dinner proceeds, the family unwittingly gets embroiled in Sam’s antics, which escalate into a scene of electric tension, culminating when Tess loudly identifies him as her husband. This revelation adds layers of humor and social critique, as Tess expresses her devotion amidst the absurdity of Sam’s multitudes.

“What Are Sex Perverts?”

Transitioning to a scene riddled with innuendo, a game show titled “What’s My Perversion?” thrives on comedic revelations about the bizarre sexual whims of contestants. The show, captivating audiences with its playful yet probing nature, records the speculative guesses of celebrity panelists about a contestant who admits to exposing himself on subways. As witticisms and misunderstandings cascade, the show evolves into a reflection on sexuality’s many forms, revealing the often absurd boundaries of human desire.

“Are the Findings of Doctors and Clinics Who Do Sexual Research and Experiments Accurate?”

In yet another playful scenario, Woody Allen returns as Victor Shakapopulis, a para-scientist embarking on a journey to uncover the bizarre world of sexual research. The ensuing misadventures explore the shocking results of dubious sexual experiments. As an unexpected collaboration with an eccentric Dr. Bernardo (John Carradine) unfolds, Victor and a young reporter, Helen (Heather MacRae), find themselves plunged into the chaotic realm of mad science and absurdity. The culmination of their efforts reveals a narrative that not only parodies scientific methods but critiques the sensationalism surrounding sexual research.

“What Happens During Ejaculation?”

In the final vignette, the storyline culminates inside the mind of a man as operators manage the physiological turmoil leading to ejaculation. An adventurous ride through a mission control-like scenario, where sperm launch in a hilariously choreographed manner, showcases not only an exploration of sexual science but also a humorous commentary on the pressures and expectations surrounding male performance. The delightful satire unfolds as operators race against time, intertwining exuberance with a farcical take on human physiology.

In conclusion, this film interweaves humor, historical references, and societal critiques, while exploring the tangled web of human desire through a comedic lens. Each vignette delivers unique perspectives, ensuring the audience is both entertained and provoked to consider the intricacies of sexuality and interpersonal relationships.

Timeline

Follow the complete movie timeline of Everything You Always Wanted to Know About Sex * But Were Afraid to Ask (1972) with every major event in chronological order. Great for understanding complex plots and story progression.


Opening Credits

The film opens with credits rolling over a mass of white rabbits. This whimsical scene is set to the tune of 'Let's Misbehave' by Cole Porter, establishing a light-hearted tone for the vignettes that will follow.

Encounter in the Garden

In the first vignette, set in Elizabethan times, the king is upset with his fool for being unfunny. The fool follows the queen into the gardens, where an inappropriate encounter occurs, prompting the ghost of his father to appear.

Elizabethan Era Royal Gardens

The Aphrodisiac

Following his father's ghost's command, the fool receives an aphrodisiac from a sorcerer. He gives it to the queen, leading to a chaotic scene involving a chastity belt as the fool tries to satisfy her desires while avoiding the king's wrath.

Beheading of the Fool

As the king approaches, the fool tries to hide beneath the queen's skirt during an intimate moment. Unfortunately, he is discovered and ends up being executed by beheading, showcasing the folly of trying to manipulate such dangerous situations.

Royal Chamber

Milos' Love for Daisy

In a modern setting, Dr. Ross is stunned when Armenian shepherd Milos confesses his love for a sheep named Daisy. This peculiar statement leads to a series of unsettling yet humorous events as Ross attempts to offer professional advice.

Doctor's Office

Affair with Daisy

After becoming emotionally attached, Dr. Ross tries to woo Daisy, symbolizing his descent into absurdity. His obsession leads to tragic consequences, including losing his family and medical license after being exposed by his wife.

Hotel Room

Fabrizio's Wedding Night

Fabrizio's wedding night proves disappointing as his wife Gina remains passive and uninterested. Over time, he becomes increasingly despondent, struggling to understand his wife's sudden change in behavior.

Fabrizio's Home

Public Displays of Affection

Gina's unexpected desires lead them to have intimate encounters in public settings. This newfound passion brings relief to Fabrizio as he navigates his wife's peculiar sexual preferences, although concern lingers about their secrecy.

Various Public Places

Sam's Secret

During dinner at a friend's house, Sam sneaks upstairs to try on women's dresses, leading to a comedic disaster. When discovered, Sam hilariously struggles with his identity, revealing deep misconceptions around gender and sexuality.

Friends' House

Police Encounter

A nearby commotion draws police attention to Sam's predicament, exacerbating the absurdity. His declaration of being three months pregnant adds a layer of farce, culminating in a surprising but comedic revelation about gender roles.

Outside a House

What's My Perversion?

The game show segment features quirky contestants revealing their unusual desires, with humorous reactions from celebrity panelists. This vignette comments on societal perspectives regarding sexual deviances and the perception of normalcy.

Television Studio

Victor's Misadventures

Victor, a sexual phenomena researcher, stops at a gas station, only to find himself alongside a peculiar sex expert. The grotesque experiments they witness at the sex clinic lead to chaos when Victor and a reporter must escape.

Dr. Bernardo's Mansion

The Fiendish Tit

The aftermath of the failed experiments leads to the absurd appearance of a giant breast wreaking havoc. Victor's strategy to defeat this surreal creature involves an outrageous setup, epitomizing the film's erratic humor and themes of sexuality.

Field

Mission Control

In the final vignette, the inner workings of a man's brain are depicted as operators manage bodily functions during an intimate moment. The frantic efforts of these operators culminate in a hilarious celebration after achieving success.

Inside a Man's Brain

Concluding Revelations

The film ends on a whimsical note highlighting misunderstandings surrounding sexual functions and desires. The comedic approach throughout the vignettes serves to entertain while also prompting reflection on human sexuality.

Characters

Explore all characters from Everything You Always Wanted to Know About Sex * But Were Afraid to Ask (1972). Get detailed profiles with their roles, arcs, and key relationships explained.


The Fool (Woody Allen)

A comedic figure who finds himself in absurd situations driven by love and lust. His antics in court demonstrate both wit and desperation as he navigates royal relationships. The Fool is characterized by his clumsy attempts at seduction and his ultimate downfall when faced with the king's wrath.

😂 Comedy 👑 Royalty 💔 Love Affairs

Dr. Ross (Gene Wilder)

A doctor caught in an outrageous love triangle with a sheep, symbolizing the absurdity of desire. His character transitions from professional to a desperate man willing to risk everything for unconventional love. Dr. Ross’s comedic journey highlights the extremes of human affection.

🐑 Unconventional Love ⚕️ Doctor 😂 Comedy

Fabrizio (Woody Allen)

A husband struggling with his wife's lack of passion, embodying the frustrations of many in romantic relationships. His journey reflects a quest for intimacy and understanding, ultimately giving into the absurdity to find connection. Fabrizio's character adds depth to the explorations of sexual dynamics.

❤️ Marriage 😵 Frustration 😂 Comedy

Setting

Learn where and when Everything You Always Wanted to Know About Sex * But Were Afraid to Ask (1972) takes place. Explore the film’s settings, era, and how they shape the narrative.


Time period

Elizabethan Era

The film primarily takes place during the Elizabethan Era, a period that lasted from 1558 to 1603. This time was marked by flourishing English drama, led by playwrights like William Shakespeare, and the exploration of new frontiers. Societal norms and sexual mores were heavily influenced by monarchy and religion, which are depicted in the various vignettes.

Location

Elizabethan England

The movie features various settings, predominantly in Elizabethan England, known for its rich cultural history and advancement in the arts. This era is characterized by the reign of Queen Elizabeth I, with significant developments in literature and drama. The gardens, courtrooms, and private quarters depicted reflect the opulence and social complexities of the time.

🏰 Historical 📍 Location

Themes

Discover the main themes in Everything You Always Wanted to Know About Sex * But Were Afraid to Ask (1972). Analyze the deeper meanings, emotional layers, and social commentary behind the film.


💔

Love and Desire

Many vignettes explore the complexities of love and desire, presenting a humorous take on the lengths individuals go to fulfill their romantic needs. The film critiques societal norms surrounding love, illustrating how impulsive and sometimes absurd human desires can be. It challenges viewers to reflect on their perceptions of love and sexual experiences.

🌀

Sexual Experimentation

The film vividly presents various sexual scenarios that challenge conventional understandings of sexuality. It showcases characters who engage in unconventional relationships and urges viewers to confront their own biases. Through humor and absurdity, it examines the nature of desire and human connection.

🎭

Identity and Role Play

The theme of identity is prevalent, particularly in segments involving transvestites and role play. Characters navigate societal expectations while exploring their own identities, often leading to comedic misunderstandings. This theme invites the audience to question the rigidity of gender roles and societal definitions of identity.

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