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Netflix’s Joy dives into the remarkable true story of Louise Joy Brown, the world’s first “test-tube baby,” and the pioneering team who made her birth possible. The film highlights not just a medical breakthrough but the deeply human struggle behind it. At the heart of the story is Jean Purdy (Thomasin McKenzie), a nurse and embryologist whose vital contributions to in vitro fertilization (IVF) have often been overlooked. Alongside scientist Robert Edwards (James Norton) and surgeon Patrick Steptoe (Bill Nighy), Purdy fights against immense societal and scientific resistance to bring hope to families struggling with infertility.
McKenzie delivers a standout performance as Purdy, portraying her with quiet intensity and warmth. She embodies the resilience of a woman who balances compassion with an unrelenting drive to make a difference. Norton’s Edwards brings emotional complexity as the optimistic yet burdened scientist, while Nighy’s Steptoe is a scene-stealer, infusing the role with a mix of wit, determination, and vulnerability. Together, the trio shares a chemistry that grounds the film in both its professional and personal stakes.
The story doesn’t shy away from the challenges the team faced in the 1970s, when IVF was widely misunderstood and fiercely debated. The medical community doubted their methods, religious groups decried their work as unnatural, and the media sensationalized their experiments. These challenges create compelling conflict, making the eventual triumph of Louise’s birth feel all the more hard-won. Taylor handles these moments with care, capturing the tension without veering into melodrama.
One of Joy’s strengths is how it balances the technical with the emotional. The science behind IVF is presented in a clear and digestible way, making it accessible without over-explaining. Yet, the heart of the film lies in its human element, the perseverance of the team, the longing of families hoping for a child, and the sacrifices made to bring this vision to life. This balance keeps the story engaging, even for viewers who might not have an inherent interest in medical dramas.
The personal cost of the team’s work is woven throughout the film. From the long hours and repeated failures to the strain on their personal relationships, Joy doesn’t sugarcoat the reality of their journey. Instead, it highlights their unyielding determination to push through these challenges, even when it seemed like the world was against them. Jack Thorne’s screenplay is particularly effective here, blending moments of heartbreak with humor and hope to keep the story grounded.
Director Ben Taylor keeps the focus intimate, focusing on the relationships and personal stakes that drive the story forward. The cinematography complements this approach, using warm, natural tones that reflect the humanity of the characters and their mission. Meanwhile, the score subtly enhances the emotional beats without overpowering them, letting the performances and narrative take center stage.
Joy is more than just a film about science, it’s a celebration of the resilience and innovation that led to a revolution in reproductive medicine. It is an inspiring and deeply human story that resonates far beyond its historical context. It’s a tribute to the people who dared to challenge the odds and create something extraordinary.
With its compelling performances and emotionally rich storytelling, Joy is a reminder of what’s possible when people refuse to give up, no matter the obstacles. Whether you’re drawn to stories about scientific achievements or just love tales of determination and hope, this film is well worth your time.
🍿 SCORE = 88 / 100
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