Movie Review: In 'Sorry, Baby,' Eva Victor makes a disarming debut
Context:
Eva Victor's debut film 'Sorry, Baby' is a thrilling and original work that effectively blends humor and sensitivity, capturing the life of its protagonist, Agnes, over five years through non-linear storytelling. The film opens with Agnes, a young professor, and her best friend Lydie, sharing natural chemistry and protective friendship, setting the tone for the rest of the narrative. Despite the plot revolving around a traumatic experience referred to as 'The Year With the Bad Thing,' the film focuses more on stasis, healing, and friendship rather than solely on the assault and its aftermath. Victor's background in improv and social media comedy is evident in the film's unique voice and subtle humor, making it a fresh take on a difficult subject. Through Agnes' sporadic and sometimes absurd path to healing, the film highlights the significance of empathy and originality in overcoming trauma, avoiding conventional narratives of revenge or catharsis.
Dive Deeper:
Eva Victor's 'Sorry, Baby' marks a remarkable debut, showcasing her talents as a writer, director, and actor in a film that navigates both humor and serious themes with finesse, setting her apart as an offbeat and original voice in filmmaking.
The narrative structure is divided into five non-linear chapters, each representing a year in Agnes' life, which allows the traumatic 'bad thing' to be viewed in a broader context of her personal growth and relationships.
Agnes' friendship with Lydie is central to the film, depicted through their natural and protective dynamic, which is highlighted in moments like Lydie holding Agnes' hand during a tense dinner, illustrating the foundational role of friendship in Agnes' journey.
The film addresses Agnes' trauma from a sexual assault with sensitivity, focusing on her unpredictable path to healing rather than a traditional storyline of revenge or sudden catharsis, emphasizing the complexity of processing such experiences.
Victor's comedic background enriches the film with humor and originality, as seen in Agnes' interactions with various characters, from a comforting stranger during a panic attack to borrowing lighter fluid from a neighbor, showcasing an unconventional approach to storytelling.
The portrayal of empathy is a recurring theme, with Agnes encountering both supportive and insensitive responses from those around her, underscoring the varied ways people choose to engage with others' pain.
Rated R for its mature content and language, 'Sorry, Baby' is a testament to Victor's ability to blend serious themes with levity, offering a fresh perspective on overcoming personal adversity while maintaining authenticity and depth.