Rob Lowe’s Bold Take on Modern Movie Sex Scenes: Are They Really ‘Brave’?

In a recent episode of his podcast Literally!, actor Rob Lowe stirred the pot by sharing his candid views on the evolving perception of sex scenes in modern cinema. Aired on February 27, 2025, the discussion centered around the idea that contemporary actors are often labeled as “brave” for engaging in intimate scenes—a notion Lowe finds perplexing. His insights not only reflect his experiences from his own acting career but also highlight a significant cultural shift in how intimacy is portrayed in film.

Lowe’s remarks come in the context of a broader conversation about the role of sex scenes in storytelling. During his career, he noted that such scenes were often considered a standard requirement in many scripts. In stark contrast, he observed that today’s films seem to shy away from explicit content. “Nobody has sex scenes in movies anymore,” he lamented, encapsulating a sentiment that many in the industry share. This shift raises questions about what has changed in Hollywood and why intimacy has become a less frequent theme.

The actor specifically referenced Nicole Kidman’s performance in the recent film Babygirl, which has garnered attention for its explicit content. While praising the film as “pretty hot,” Lowe questioned the labeling of Kidman’s participation as “brave.” He remarked, “It’s puzzling to me that we’re calling this brave. It was just part of the job back in my day.” This sentiment echoes the nostalgia many feel for a time when sex scenes were integral to storytelling rather than a topic of debate.

Lowe’s reflections also touched on what he termed the “Page 73 Rule,” a guideline in Hollywood that made intimate scenes a necessity for many scripts during his time. He explained that such scenes were not only common but often essential for character development and plot progression. This contrasts sharply with the more cautious approach seen in recent films, where intimacy is sometimes treated as an afterthought or avoided altogether.

Actress Kristin Davis, who joined Lowe in the discussion, echoed his sentiments, expressing a desire for more sexy movies in contemporary cinema. She pointed out that while Babygirl serves as a modern example of explicit content, such scenes have become “an unusual thing now.” This shared perspective underscores a growing concern among actors and filmmakers about the state of intimacy in film.

The conversation surrounding Lowe’s comments has sparked discussions about the implications of labeling performances as “brave.” Critics argue that this terminology diminishes the artistry and complexity involved in portraying intimacy on screen. It raises questions about the evolving standards and expectations surrounding sex in film, reflecting broader societal changes in attitudes toward vulnerability and sexuality.

Lowe’s insights contribute to ongoing conversations about the representation of sex in film and how it mirrors cultural attitudes. As Hollywood continues to navigate these changing perceptions, the discussion raises important questions about the future of intimacy in storytelling. Will filmmakers feel empowered to explore sensuality, or will the trend of caution continue to dominate?

In conclusion, Rob Lowe’s bold take on the current state of sex scenes in cinema serves as a reminder of the complexities surrounding intimacy in film. As societal norms evolve, so too does the landscape of storytelling. Lowe’s reflections not only challenge the notion of bravery in performing intimate scenes but also call for a reconsideration of what it means to portray sexuality in a way that resonates with audiences. The dialogue sparked by his comments suggests a longing for a return to more sensual depictions in film, leaving us to ponder the future of intimacy in Hollywood.

As the industry evolves, it remains to be seen whether filmmakers will embrace the boldness of past eras or continue to tread carefully around the subject of intimacy. One thing is clear: the conversation about sex in cinema is far from over.