Babes is the perfect example of a film being made that isn’t necessarily made for your target demographic but is so well done that it captures your attention. Ilana Glazer and Josh Rabinowitz have written a hysterical, heartfelt, and authentic look at the perils, fears, and pure joy that comes with becoming a mother. There is nothing about this which has been “sanitized” for audiences. Babes is a great example of how art can often imitate life. Director Pamela Adlon does a tremendous job capturing the emotional roller coaster which is impending motherhood.
Babes certainly has a wonderful ensemble cast but the film wouldn’t nearly be what it is without the standout work from Ilana Glazer and Michelle Buteau. All the writing in the world can’t be save poor performances but Glazer and Buteau soar on the screen. Buteau’s character represents all of the “established” mothers who have been there and done that. Her character already has one kid with her husband and is almost too chill about the whole process. Glazer’s character represents those mothers who never envisioned becoming one. Eden (Glazer) has only Dawn (Buteau) as a measuring stick of what motherhood is. She makes it look somewhat easy, so Eden assumes she’s up for the task.
The beauty of Babes is that it takes the perception of motherhood and flips it on its head. Even those who seem to be having an easy time with it, are likely struggling in some fashion. That’s the part that very few want others to know. Glazer and Rabinowitz script makes the argument that we have to be more open with each other about those struggles. Society perceives these struggles as often a sign of weakness but being open about those is actually the exact opposite. It’s the vulnerability Eden and Dawn project which grabs audiences and doesn’t let go. The humor (and trust me, the film is hysterical) breaks those moments of vulnerability up so it’s much for easier for audiences to process. While I might never look at a slightly damp theater chairs the same again, there’s no question that this movie is one of the year’s best.
Dewey Singleton has been reviewing new releases in television and film for many years. Dewey's reviews have been heard in multiple markets (Houston Atlanta, Tampa). Dewey's past work has been with awardswatch.com, awardsradar.com, and bleeding cool. Dewey is a proud member of the CCA.