Ask Dr. Ruth
Directed by Ryan White
Out May 3      

Dr. Ruth Westheimer, known lovingly as America’s sex therapist, is almost 91. And it’s possible that there has never been a better time to celebrate her incredible life than right now, when we need some hope (and better sex education) more than ever. The documentary Ask Dr. Ruth oscillates between painful recollections of the educator’s childhood growing up in Europe during the Holocaust, clips from her various television shows and guest appearances, and Westheimer’s reflections now. Viewers also revisit the ways in which her shows and opinions were considered radical when Westheimer first gained traction in the ’80s—especially when she provided revolutionary support to those living with HIV/AIDS and validated individuals who needed or wanted abortions.

More insight into Westheimer’s thoughts on how discussions of sex have shifted over time, and how we can apply her teachings today, would have added another crucial dimension to the documentary. But as it is, Ask Dr. Ruth is an emotional and enjoyable highlight reel for those who have grown up watching her onscreen. For those unfamiliar with her, this is a comprehensive introduction to an undeniably brilliant expert in all things sex and sexuality. 3/5

By Lydia Wang

This article originally appeared in the May/June 2019 print edition of BUST Magazine. Subscribe today!

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As we settle firmly into spring, it’s the perfect time to sit outside with a great new book (maybe by Rebecca Solnit, or Ayesha Harruna Attah?) or a peppy, catchy-as-hell song on repeat. Here are some of our recommendations this week.

MOVIES/TV 

Surviving R. Kelly: The Impact 

Hosted by Soledad O’Brien, Lifetime will be setting aside two hours this Saturday for reactions to January’s Surviving R. Kelly. As per the media release, this special will investigate “the impact the documentary has had on our culture globally, how it has elevated the conversation on sexual violence, and what it means to be a survivor.” Airing May 4. 

Ask Dr. Ruth

This new documentary, out May 3 on Hulu, celebrates the incredible life of Dr. Ruth Westheimer, known lovingly as America’s sex therapist. Stay tuned for our review on BUST.com.

Tell It To The Bees

Set in England in the 1950s, this queer love story stars Anna Paquin as a beekeeper who forms a bond with a troubled young boy—and his mother (Holliday Grainger). Out May 3.

MUSIC 

Scatter the Ratsby L7

Scatter the Ratsis grunge band L7’s first record in 20 years! Out May 3, and keep checking BUST.com for further coverage.

This Mess Is A Placeby Tacocat 

Feminist pop punk band Tacocat is back with new tunes! This Mess Is A Placeis out May 3, and you can check out our interview with frontwoman—and BUST editor!—Emily Nokes in our May/June print issue.

Kash Doll on “What You Wanna Do” by Anthony Flammia

On May 2, Complex premiered a new collaboration between Anthony Flammia and rapper Kash Doll, complete with a lyric video. Out now. 

BOOKS

The Hundred Wells of Salagaby Ayesha Harruna Attah

Attah’s book centers around two women in pre-colonial Ghana, Aminah and Wurche, living intertwined lives. Out February 5, and you can find our review here.

Cinderella Liberatorby Rebecca Solnit

Calling all family and friends of younger feminists! Rebecca Solnit’s debut children’s book is a retelling of Cinderella with an empowering and Prince Charming-less twist. Out May 7.

Revenge of the She-Punksby Vivien Goldman

Goldman’s feminist music history is one we’ve waited awhile for—a refreshingly female-focused look into punk music, from the ’70s up ’til today. Out May 7, and stay tuned for our review on BUST.com.

Top photo via L7's website

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