Unpacking ‘Sorry, Baby’: A Deep Dive into Healing and Transformation in Film

Sorry, Baby is a fresh take on trauma and healing, focusing on the bond between women rather than just violence and suffering. Writer-director Eva Victor presents a narrative that allows for nonlinear healing and the beauty of friendship.

Please note: This article discusses sensitive topics related to sexual assault.

Writer & Director: Eva Victor
Genre: Comedy, Drama
Run Time: 103 minutes
Cannes Screening: May 22, 2025
U.S. Release: June 27, 2025 (limited), July 18, 2025 (wide)
U.K. Release: August 22, 2025

In a world filled with films showcasing women as victims, Sorry, Baby breaks the mold. It premiered at Sundance and received praise at Cannes, where it closed the Directors’ Fortnight. The film follows Agnes, played by Victor herself, a college professor stuck in her past. Her life shifts when her old friend Lydie returns to town. The story unfolds in a nonlinear fashion, giving viewers a glimpse into Agnes’ life and the trauma she endures during her final year of graduate school.

The atmosphere of the university is vividly portrayed, capturing the pressure and uncertainty of academia. Photographer Mia Cioffi Henry brings it to life, allowing us to almost feel the weight of the wooden chairs and the chill of a Massachusetts winter. This setting mirrors Agnes’ internal struggles, making her journey relatable.

So, what happens to Agnes? In a smart twist, the film handles trauma with care, flipping the script on how such issues are often depicted. Instead of graphic violence, we see Agnes as the keeper of her story, controlling the narrative and avoiding the voyeuristic lens that often accompanies tales of suffering. This choice underscores the film’s focus on healing rather than mere survival.

Victor avoids romanticizing brokenness. Instead, the moments of pain serve a purpose in Agnes’ complex journey. For instance, during a moment of vulnerability, Agnes covers her windows with pages from her thesis, showing both her anxiety and determination to reclaim her love for writing. This imagery captures the essence of her journey—one of growth, reclamation, and resilience.

The film’s heart lies in Agnes’ friendship with Lydie. Their bond feels genuine and effortless, as they communicate in shorthand and share intimate moments that will resonate with many viewers who cherish similar friendships. Victor’s sharp writing and chemistry with co-star Naomi Ackie make their relationship feel alive and central to the narrative.

Importantly, the film also critiques societal institutions that often fail those seeking help. Victor’s humor adds depth to Agnes’ encounters with doctors and university staff, blending laughter with uncomfortable truths. These scenes challenge harmful narratives around abuse while providing thoughtful commentary.

While grappling with darkness, the film beautifully features moments of joy and reconnection. Agnes rediscovers her love for teaching and finds new relationships in unexpected places, illustrating that healing isn’t always linear. This nuance adds realism, presenting survivors as multifaceted individuals rather than mere victims.

Ultimately, Sorry, Baby doesn’t offer easy answers. Healing is a journey filled with ups and downs. The film captures life’s complexities, finding humor even in the darkest moments. Through Agnes’ experiences and her quirky interactions—like borrowing lighter fluid from a neighbor—the story paints a vivid picture of survival and friendship.

This film is not just a narrative about trauma; it’s a rich exploration of friendship, culture, and the human spirit. It encourages audiences to see survivors as whole people, making it a must-watch for anyone interested in genuine storytelling.

Sorry, Baby promises to resonate long after the credits roll and is set to make its mark in theaters. Don’t miss it when it releases in the U.S. and U.K. later this year.

Source link