Baby Done

What happens when you want a baby but not to turn into a mum? New Zealand’s heart-warming comedy, Baby Done, follows a couple’s fear of losing their adventurous spirits as they embark on the anxiety-filled journey that is parenthood. With a charming script and standout performances, the film is a jovial story with bittersweet moments, perfectly capturing the frustration and panic of realising the significant life change. Directed by Curtis Vowell and produced by Taika Waititi, the feature feels incredibly modern and relatable as it tackles a pregnancy plot often experienced but seldom seen. 

Baby Done – written by Sophie Henderson – is a character-driven narrative that is centred around a young, strong-hearted arborist Zoe (Rose Matafeo) and her long-time empath boyfriend Tim (Matthew Lewis). After discovering that she is pregnant, the protagonist is adamant not to transform into the boring, baby-obsessed couples that she’s seen so many of her friends morph into. Determined to keep a sense of her busy and animated life, she makes a pre-birth bucket list and is determined to compete in the World Tree Climbing Championships. However, the nature lover soon spirals into pure denial as her partner starts preparing for her due date and changing everything around her, including their relationship dynamic. Henderson’s script is genuinely funny and insightful, managing to push the action forward with fresh jokes and likeable personalities. Both Tim and Zoe ooze individuality, making it easy to invest in their relationship and enduring interactions. The straightforward story, although simple, is a joy to watch as the lines prompt the audience to laugh while engaging character development unfolds.  

Despite having some monotonous cinematography, Baby Done truly shines in its showcasing of acting talent. Matafeo particularly manages to steal the spotlight in her scenes. Her sassy, emotionally layered performance combined with expert comedic timing is what separates the movie from others in its rom-com genre, making the production seem more mature while maintaining its sense of fun. Furthermore, the leading pair’s solid onscreen chemistry adds an aspect of realism, composing a feeling of authenticity and sincerity around the couple’s journey. 

Baby Done is a feel-good and delightfully funny tale. Underpinned by a script that finally does a portrayal of women and questions of motherhood justice, it’s a refreshing plot to view and, overall, charmingly enjoyable.

Emma-Jane Betts

Baby Done is released digitally in the UK on 22^nd January 2021.

Watch the trailer for Baby Done here: