Ep 1. Sex & Violence

In the first episode of Chewing Gum, titled "Sex & Violence," we are introduced to the main character, Tracey Gordon, played by Michaela Coel. Tracey is a 24-year-old virgin who lives in a council estate in London with her extremely religious mother and sister.

The opening scene sets the tone for the show, as Tracey is seen standing in front of a mirror, practicing different sexual positions with a hairbrush. Her obsession with sex and her desire to lose her virginity are apparent from the outset, and this becomes a driving force for the entire season.

Throughout the episode, we see Tracey navigating her way through various sexual encounters, from her first kiss with her longtime crush Connor to a more risque encounter with her ex-boyfriend Ronald, who is back in town after a stint in prison.

Tracey's sexual exploration is juxtaposed with her mother's staunch religious beliefs, which prohibit any form of premarital sex or even the use of contraception. This causes a lot of tension between the two, as Tracey struggles to reconcile her own desires with her mother's expectations.

In addition to the sexual content, the episode also tackles issues of violence, as Tracey's sister Cynthia is revealed to be in an abusive relationship with her boyfriend. This storyline serves to highlight the prevalence of domestic abuse in lower-income communities and the difficulty of breaking free from such situations.

The episode is full of humor and heart, with Michaela Coel's incredible performance as Tracey carrying the show. She delivers her lines with both sincerity and wit, making her a relatable and endearing protagonist.

Overall, "Sex & Violence" sets the stage for the rest of the series, introducing us to the colorful characters and themes that will continue to be explored throughout. It is a bold and refreshing take on coming-of-age stories, combining humor with social commentary in a way that feels both entertaining and insightful.