Watch Maybe Baby

Maybe Baby is a British romantic comedy-drama film released in 2000, directed and written by Ben Elton, starring Hugh Laurie, Joely Richardson, and Matthew Macfadyen. The film's central theme is infertility and its impact on the life of a couple trying to conceive a child. The story of Maybe Baby revolves around the life of Sam (Hugh Laurie) and Lucy (Joely Richardson), a young couple who are deeply in love and seem to have everything going in their favor until they decide to start a family. As they begin their quest to have a baby, they soon discover that it is not as easy as they thought it would be. After several attempts at conceiving, Sam and Lucy's efforts yield no results. They take medical advice from a specialist who diagnoses them with unexplained infertility.

Sam, who works as a successful comedy scriptwriter, decides to use this experience as material for his next project. He starts writing a film that explores the theme of infertility, one that he hopes will help him to come to terms with his own situation. Sam embarks on a journey that not only highlights the struggles of trying to conceive a child, but it also exposes the impact that infertility can have on a relationship.

Throughout the film, Sam and Lucy undergo multiple tests and treatments to assist them with their desire to have children. They encounter different doctors with varying opinions, try all sorts of weird and wonderful remedies, and undergo numerous awkward experiences. Eventually, they end up exploring the option of using a sperm donor, which adds another layer of complications to their situation.

As Sam immerses himself in his writing, Lucy feels increasingly isolated and left out. She can't help but feel that Sam is more interested in his film project than in their quest to have a baby. Lucy seeks support from her friend and colleague, who is heavily pregnant and struggling with her own impending motherhood.

As the film progresses, we see Sam's work begin to bleed into his personal life, causing additional turmoil in his relationship with Lucy. They find themselves grappling with the emotional, physical and psychological aspects of infertility, and their relationship is put to the test as they struggle to navigate these issues.

Despite the often serious nature of the movie's subject matter, Maybe Baby contains several humorous moments, as expected from a comedy-drama. For example, Hugh Laurie delivers his signature dry wit and sarcastic one-liners, and the events surrounding the various medical procedures are played for comedic effect.

The film's director, Ben Elton, uses a variety of techniques to create a sense of intimacy between the audience and the characters. For example, the camera often lingers on the faces of the main actors, emphasizing the emotions they are experiencing. The film's soundtrack is thoughtful and poignant, helping to convey the mood of the scenes.

In conclusion, Maybe Baby is an engaging and honest portrayal of the complexities of infertility and how it can impact a relationship. It tackles the difficult subject of infertility with sensitivity while still maintaining a sense of humor. The performances from the main cast are excellent, and the film uses a range of techniques to help convey the emotional impact of infertility on the couple. Although it has been two decades since its release, Maybe Baby is still a relevant and thought-provoking film about the struggles of infertility and the impact it can have on an individual and a relationship.