How an Intimacy Coordinator Choreographs Sex Scenes

This week, host Isaac Butler talks to intimacy coordinator and director Marcus Watson, who oversees the performance of intimate scenes for film, TV, and theater. In the interview, Marcus discusses the increasing prevalence of his role in recent years, especially since the beginning of the #metoo movement. He also details the conversations he has with performers and directors in order to establish boundaries for scenes that involve things like kissing and simulated sex. 

After the interview, Isaac and co-host June Thomas discuss the awkwardness of performing and directing intimate scenes. 

In the exclusive Slate Plus segment, Marcus talks about how his job has affected the way he watches movies and TV shows. 

Send your questions about creativity and any other feedback to working@slate.com or give us a call at (304) 933-9675.

Podcast production by Cameron Drews and Cheyna Roth.

Listeners can read Isaac’s article about Owen Wilson here: https://slate.com/culture/2021/06/owen-wilson-loki-mobius-actor-sadness-addiction.html

If you enjoy this show, please consider signing up for Slate Plus. Slate Plus members get benefits like zero ads on any Slate podcast, bonus episodes of shows like Slow Burn and the Culture Gabfest—and you’ll be supporting the work we do here on Working. Sign up now at slate.com/workingplus.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices