Elizabeth Banks
Joy
Overview
A married woman with an unwanted pregnancy lives in a time in America where she can't get a legal abortion and works with a group of suburban women to find help.
Cast
12 people
Reviews
Manuel São Bento
FULL SPOILER-FREE REVIEW @ https://www.msbreviews.com/movie-reviews/other-films-watched-spoiler-free-review-sundance/#jane "Call Jane presents a compelling premise focused on women's rights, remarkably elevated by excellent performances from Elizabeth Banks, Sigourney Weaver, Chris Messina, and Wunmi Mosaku. An interesting, engaging first act quickly grabs the viewers, featuring a well-written screenplay and clever use of witty songs. However, the story gradually loses momentum, becoming repetitive and dull. Practically every meaningful point is made during the first half, so the last hour feels a bit redundant and irrelevant, except for one particular development. Pacing issues arise to the overlong runtime and Phyllis Nagy's attempt to cover too much ground. Also, the emotional attachment with the protagonist and the narrative itself is on-and-off throughout the film. A good effort, nonetheless." Rating: C-
Read full reviewCinemaSerf
Elizabeth Banks ("Joy") and her husband "Will" (Chris Messina) are rather joyfully expecting a late arrival into their 1960s family when it transpires that she has an heart condition that her doctor suggests could prove extremely perilous so long as she remains pregnant. Desperate, she turns to "Jane" after reading a billboard that suggested there may be help at hand. $600 and a visit to "Dr. Dean" (Cory Michael Smith) and all may be dealt with? Not if "Virginia" (Sigourney Weaver) has anything to do with it for she is the facilitator of a small group of women determined to help others who find themselves in a similar predicament. Of course it's all illegal - and the film now takes on a frequently darkly humoured trip that sees this initially rather reticent (and innocent) woman realise that more needs to be done, and to take some, frankly, rather innovative and courageous steps so to do. As far as the integrity of the medical science goes, I suspect this is massively over-simplistic, but in light of current events in the United States, it does shine a light on the difficulties families (single or otherwise) have in obtaining adequate and affordable medical care when they are faced with the unpleasant realities of an unwanted pregnancy. There is the odd bit of politicking going on - the prioritisation of victims getting support proving quite a potent source of debate and that, too, does offer food for thought. Banks reminded me of Elizabeth Montgomery from "Bewitched" for much of this; Weaver, though not exactly prominent here, offers a bit of depth and there is a strong effort from both the increasingly bamboozled Messina and from Wunmi Mosaku's "Gwen". It does begin to recycle itself a little towards and ending that didn't make a great deal of sense to me and the conclusion, despite this being over 2 hours long, seemed a bit rushed - but it is still an entertaining piece of cinema with an underpinning message that is probably more relevant now that for many a year.
Read full reviewAudience Opinions
Audience 7.2/10
"A poignant and timely drama with strong performances, though its pacing and predictability hold it back from greatness."
Elizabeth Banks and Sigourney Weaver deliver compelling performances that anchor this historical drama about abortion rights in 1960s America. Many appreciate its emotional depth and relevance, but some find the story too slow and formulaic, lacking the urgency its subject matter demands. The film’s portrayal of the Jane Collective resonates, though its execution occasionally feels uneven.
What viewers praise
- Powerful lead performances Elizabeth Banks and Sigourney Weaver are praised for their nuanced portrayals, bringing emotional weight to the story.
- Timely and important subject The film’s exploration of abortion rights and women’s solidarity in the 1960s strikes a chord with many viewers.
- Strong emotional core The personal struggles of the protagonist and the collective’s mission create a moving narrative.
- Authentic period detail The 1960s setting is well-realized, adding depth to the historical context.
Common complaints
- Slow pacing Some viewers feel the film drags, particularly in the middle act, diluting its impact.
- Predictable storyline The narrative follows familiar tropes, making it feel less fresh or surprising.
- Underdeveloped side characters Supporting roles, aside from Weaver’s, are seen as thinly sketched and forgettable.
- Lacks urgency Despite its serious subject, the film occasionally feels too restrained to fully convey the stakes.
Recommended for
Historical drama enthusiasts Fans of feminist narratives Elizabeth Banks admirers Social issue film lovers 1960s period piece fans
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