Sex comedies can be tricky to pull off, especially when they address sensitive topics like women’s bodies, their sexual desires, and the pursuit of pleasure. Thank You For Coming, starring Bhumi Pednekar, unapologetically delves into these themes, ensuring the audience enjoys a happy ending—pun intended. Directed by Karan Boolani, this film is raw, raunchy, real, and surprisingly relatable. More importantly, it is empowering.
Thank You For Coming puts the spotlight on women and their long-suppressed sexual needs, challenging societal norms and the stigmas around openly discussing female pleasure. The film centers around the idea that women deserve happiness—not just in their relationships or in life, but in bed as well. It’s more than just a sex-positive comedy; it aims to break the chains of deep-rooted patriarchy and the constant judgment women face across all ages.
The story follows Kanika Kapoor (played by Bhumi Pednekar), a 32-year-old woman who has never experienced an orgasm. Born to a single mother (Natasha Rastogi), who chose to have a child out of wedlock, Kanika refuses to follow in her mother’s footsteps. Instead, she embarks on a man-hunt, hoping to find satisfaction at every stage of her life.
Through flashbacks, Kanika recounts the stories of her three short but significant relationships—one in school, one with a steady boyfriend, and one with an older man. Despite her efforts, all three relationships leave her unsatisfied, both emotionally and physically.
The film tackles these issues with humor and heart, ensuring that while the topic is risqué, the treatment is thoughtful. Thank You For Coming is not just about women seeking sexual fulfillment; it’s about their right to live life on their own terms, free from societal expectations and judgment. With its empowering message, the film aims to normalize conversations around women’s desires and their pursuit of happiness.
Reviews:
Shubhra Gupta of The Indian Express:
Bhumi Pednekar film is a heartfelt slap in the face of the zillions of movies that are about privileged boys and their putrid toys.
Meera Navlakha of Mashable:
If its purpose is to serve as a feminist romp for modern India, it succeeded – and executed with fun. This is a welcome addition to the genre, reinforcing that female stories deserve to be told with humor, light and meaning.
Marya E. Gates of Indie Wire:
Anand and Singh’s script tries to tackle too many thematic issues, ultimately short-changing most of them. However, it’s hard to deny Pednekar’s irrepressible charm.