Question 1

What makes 'Turn Me On' a significant film, beyond its subject matter?

Accepted Answer

'Turn Me On' is significant for its courage in tackling a subject often relegated to the shadows. Its recognition at the ATOM Awards underscores its academic and critical merit within Australia. The film's impact lies in its ability to reframe a common object as a lens through which to view broader social and sexual histories, encouraging a re-evaluation of our understanding of intimacy and societal progress.

Question 2

What is the overall tone and style of the documentary?

Accepted Answer

The documentary adopts an investigative and revelatory tone, aiming to bring a hidden history into the light. Through its 'sexpert' characters, it likely balances educational content with an engaging, perhaps even provocative, narrative. The style aims to uncover what has been 'socially camouflaged,' suggesting a direct and insightful approach to its subject matter.

Question 3

Is 'Turn Me On: The History of the Vibrator' relevant to Australian audiences?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. The film's examination of social history and the evolution of intimacy has universal appeal, but its win for Best Tertiary Documentary at the ATOM Awards in Melbourne in 2002 directly connects it to the Australian film landscape. This award signifies its recognition within the local academic and documentary circles, suggesting a thoughtful and relevant contribution to discussions on social history.

Question 4

What kind of historical revelations does 'Turn Me On' offer?

Accepted Answer

'Turn Me On' aims to expose a social and sexual history that has been deliberately obscured for over 120 years. The documentary suggests that the evolution of the vibrator is intertwined with societal attitudes towards sex and women's pleasure, often revealing aspects that mainstream history has glossed over. It promises to uncover a narrative that challenges conventional understandings of sexual liberation and technological advancement.

Question 5

Who are the key figures featured in 'Turn Me On: The History of the Vibrator'?

Accepted Answer

The documentary features a group of 'sexpert' characters who guide viewers through the historical revelations. While the director's identity is not specified, the performances of Sarah Ward and Megan Hicks are noted. These individuals are instrumental in presenting the film's exploration of the vibrator's social and sexual history, acting as conduits for the information and analysis presented.

Question 6

What is the central premise of 'Turn Me On: The History of the Vibrator'?

Accepted Answer

This documentary delves into the often-overlooked history of the vibrator, a sex toy that has spent over a century largely concealed. Through the insights of several 'sexpert' characters, the film uncovers the social and sexual narratives surrounding this device, suggesting a history that some might prefer to keep private. It aims to shed light on a significant, yet often camouflaged, aspect of our social and sexual evolution.

Turn Me On: The History of the Vibrator