When Mikaela (Erin Kearns), a young woman with Down syndrome, witnesses a hit-and-run accident involving a pregnant woman, something sparks, and she’s filled with the desire to have a baby of her own. She spends her days cozied up with her boyfriend and fellow group home resident Eric Charles (Michael Buxton), watching their favorite show, You’re the Father!, which resembles The Maury Povich Show. When Mikaela tells her sister Jess (Yiana Pandelis) that she’s pregnant, Jess is in a bit of disbelief but also by her side each step of the way.
A short film that shows more than it tells within its runtime, Baby highlights the similarities and differences between people living with disabilities. Mikaela having Down syndrome doesn’t alter her desire to have the same things that those without Down syndrome desire. Although life differs for her, certain possibilities shouldn’t be out of reach. Mikaela may have to navigate a different route, but she and others like her can still arrive at the same destination.
When Mikaela first announced her pregnancy to her sister, it was clear that her sister was in shock. Jess worries for several reasons. Although she never spoke to any of them, the filmmaker successfully implied that Jess could’ve been concerned about Mikaela’s ability as a mother, social services coming to take the child, leaving her sister heartbroken, or the added responsibility it would put on her. These are all normal reactions to the situation.
The creative team behind Baby proved to be a magical trio that allowed the story to unfold naturally, almost as if we were watching a documentary instead of a narrative short. James Di Martino’s direction balanced moments of quiet character reflection with intimate glimpses into Mikaela and Eric Charles’ relationship. Llewellyn Michael Bates’ script had little dialogue yet spoke volumes. It left spaces for the audience to delve into Jess’s thoughts and run through scenarios in our heads as if we, too, were figuring out how this would work for Mikaela. Alexander Naughton’s enchanting cinematography further enhanced the film’s allure, enveloping the story in a visually compassionate and dream-like quality.
Representation matters not just on screen but within stories told, too. Baby effectively highlights individuals’ diverse abilities and potential across a broad spectrum of capabilities. The film underscores that their aspirations, dreams, and desires are significant and should not be disregarded because we view them as challenging. These individuals can accomplish any goal with adequate support from a loving community. Baby portrays their capacity for love, intimacy, and family life. It’s a charming short film that ends with an adorable conclusion.
Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
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