Lilly Singh’s “Doin’ It”: A Bold Exploration of Sexuality Through a South Asian Lens

Lilly Singh, the multifaceted comedian and internet sensation, is making waves with her latest project, “Doin’ It,” a sex comedy that delves into the complexities of sexuality from a South Asian perspective. The film, which has been seven years in the making, features Singh as Maya, a thirty-something virgin unexpectedly tasked with teaching sex education to teenagers. This unique premise not only challenges societal norms but also aims to break the silence surrounding sexual health in underrepresented communities.

The Journey to “Doin’ It”

Singh’s journey to bring “Doin’ It” to life began when co-writer Neel Patel shared the script with her. “I fell in love with the idea of a sex comedy from the South Asian perspective,” Singh told IndieWire. “Little Lilly would have benefited so much if she had something like this.” This sentiment reflects a broader need for diverse narratives in Hollywood, particularly those that resonate with marginalized voices.

The film’s development was not without its challenges. Singh, who has primarily worked in short-form content, faced a steep learning curve in adapting to the feature film format. “I had to think about longer character arcs and follow all these rules,” she explained. “The hardest thing for me is that I come from a place where I made all of the rules.” This transition highlights the difficulties many creators face when moving from digital platforms to traditional film.

Breaking Down Barriers

One of the film’s central themes is the stigma surrounding sexuality, particularly within South Asian communities. Singh expressed her frustration with the term “niche,” which she feels is often used to dismiss stories like hers. “I want to tell stories for our community and highlight our unrepresented voices,” she stated. “It’s tragic that we don’t get to see all facets of us on screen.”

“Doin’ It” aims to challenge these stereotypes by presenting a sex-positive narrative that empowers women to make their own choices. Singh emphasized that the film is not merely about Maya losing her virginity; rather, it focuses on her journey of unlearning shame and embracing her identity. “I think that’s the best positive message you can give people, especially women,” she noted.

A Collaborative Effort

The film’s production involved extensive collaboration, which Singh found both challenging and rewarding. “Some of the best scenes of the movie were birthed because of collaboration and multiple people’s ideas,” she shared. This collaborative spirit is essential in creating authentic narratives that resonate with audiences.

Singh’s personal experiences also played a significant role in shaping Maya’s character. “A lot of Maya is true to me,” she revealed. “Many things she says are things I verbatim have said in therapy or to my friends.” By drawing from her own life and the generational trauma experienced by women in her family, Singh infuses the character with authenticity and depth.

The Importance of Representation

“Doin’ It” is not just a comedy; it serves as a crucial commentary on the lack of representation in mainstream media. Singh’s commitment to showcasing diverse narratives is evident in her approach to the film. “I think it really hinders our community’s progress in a lot of ways,” she stated, highlighting the importance of visibility for marginalized voices.

The film also addresses the challenges of sex education in contemporary society. Singh conducted research by speaking with younger family members to ensure the portrayal of teenagers was accurate. “There’s still a lot of really negative discourse around sex and sexuality,” she noted. “We just want to do our part to make sure we’re talking about it in a very positive way.”

A Personal Touch

Singh’s mother played a pivotal role in the film’s development, serving as a cultural consultant. “I never thought in my adult life I would say that I did a sex comedy and my mom helped on it,” Singh remarked. This familial involvement adds a layer of authenticity to the film, bridging generational gaps in understanding sexuality.

The film’s promotional tour has also been a source of humor and surprise for Singh. She recounted a family party where her cousin presented her with a cake shaped like breasts, eliciting excitement from her aunties. “I never thought my group of otherwise pretty reserved aunties would be so down with this,” she laughed. This reaction underscores the film’s potential to spark conversations about sexuality within conservative communities.

The Future of Storytelling

As Singh looks ahead, she is eager to continue telling stories that resonate with her experiences and those of her community. “I have two follow-up scripts already that I want to make,” she revealed. “Everything I want to make can best be described as entertainment-first content that has a message.” This commitment to meaningful storytelling reflects a growing trend in Hollywood, where creators are increasingly focused on narratives that challenge societal norms.

Singh’s aspirations extend beyond her own projects. She expressed a desire to create a film centered around her real-life aunties, whom she affectionately refers to as the “Fun Gang.” “It’s kind of like ‘Girls Trip’ with four Indian aunties,” she described. This concept not only highlights the importance of representation but also showcases the humor and resilience of women in her community.

Conclusion

Lilly Singh’s “Doin’ It” is more than just a sex comedy; it is a groundbreaking exploration of sexuality, identity, and representation. By sharing her personal journey and the stories of her community, Singh is paving the way for more diverse narratives in Hollywood. As the film prepares for its release, it promises to challenge societal norms and inspire conversations about sexuality that have long been silenced. With her unique voice and unwavering commitment to authenticity, Singh is poised to make a lasting impact on the film industry and beyond.