Sharon Maguire Directs 'The Joy of Sex' Comedy with Colin Firth and Julianne Moore

Sharon Maguire is directing a new film titled The Joy of Sex, with a cast led by Colin Firth, Julianne Moore, and Laura Linney, according to Deadline. The project is a love triangle comedy about the creation of the famous 1970s sex manual.

Filming began in the UK this week. The script was written by Maguire and Lise Mayer.

What is the movie about?

The film charts the true story behind the 1972 book The Joy of Sex. It focuses on the unconventional romantic trio of author Alex Comfort (Firth), his wife Ruth (Linney), and her best friend Jane (Moore). Their decade-long relationship in the suburbs of North London served as the laboratory for the book's content.

"The irony is that the book was an unashamed sex guide for loving couples, yet it was created out of a somewhat tempestuous triangle," director Sharon Maguire said. "Dissecting this triangle lies at the heart of the movie. It’s a story which is surprising, moving and very funny."

Who else is in the cast?

Firth, Moore, and Linney are joined by David Tennant, Jason Watkins, and Vicky Krieps. Producers include Alison Owen and Debra Hayward of Monumental Films.

What is the release status?

The film was a hit with buyers at the Cannes market. It has pre-sold to the UK, 23 territories across continental Europe and Africa, Latin America, Australia, and New Zealand. Lionsgate will distribute in the UK, with Wildbunch handling German-speaking territories. Global sales are being handled by Embankment Films.