Eva Victor’s directorial debut, ‘Sorry, Baby’, has captured the hearts of audiences worldwide by presenting an original perspective on trauma and the process of healing. This sharply-crafted film reimagines the conventional ‘trauma plot,’ resonating deeply in the post-#MeToo era. In this article, we’ll explore the film’s genius, Victor’s journey, and the lessons it offers on resilience.
The Journey Behind ‘Sorry, Baby’
Amidst the Covid-19 shutdown in late 2020, comedian and actor Eva Victor turned a moment of professional pause into a creative opportunity. Isolated in rural Maine, they channeled personal experiences—including their reflections on sexual assault—into a screenplay that Barry Jenkins, director of Moonlight, would later support and produce. Despite its heavy subject, Sorry, Baby steers away from showing violence, instead unfolding the deeply personal, nonlinear journey of a survivor.
As Victor explains, “It’s like a stone gets shoved into the river of your life. You can’t remove it, but you must find a way for the water to move around it.” This poetic visualization is at the film’s core, emphasizing that recovery doesn’t define one’s entire identity.
Breaking the Mold of Trauma Narratives
Sorry, Baby rejects stereotypes of portraying survivors as only tragic figures. Instead, it paints them as fully human, with complexities, flaws, and moments of joy. The story follows Agnes (played by Victor), a young academic seeking healing in wake of unbearable violence. Supporting her is her best friend, Lydie (Naomi Ackie), who acts as a grounding and vibrant force in her life.
This portrayal breaks ground by showing layers of grief, humor, and community. As Victor notes, “Processing is nonlinear. People are multifaceted, and life doesn’t come in only one tone.” A key aspect of the film’s appeal is its touch of comedy, which mirrors the bittersweet nuances of real life.
How the Film Speaks to Broader Movements
The landscape of #MeToo-inspired media has evolved significantly since the movement gained traction. Sorry, Baby arrives at a time when discussions about accountability, justice, and systemic change have quieted but remain deeply relevant. While Agnes chooses personal healing over external resolution, the film doesn’t shy away from critiquing broken systems and the lack of societal support for survivors.
“All we have is ourselves, our lives, and our friends,” Victor explains, underlining one of the film’s messages: healing is personal and intimately tied to the relationships we nurture.
The Role of Personal Growth and Creativity
Victor’s background in comedy shaped their storytelling style, blending heartache with deadpan humor. Starting out as a writer for the satirical website Reductress, they found an outlet in creating short, comedic videos that went viral online. These creative roots paved the way to their success as a filmmaker.
Inspired by personal experiences and films like I May Destroy You by Michaela Coel, Victor’s work emphasizes narrative authenticity over didactic storytelling. This unique voice is evident throughout Sorry, Baby, where trauma acts as a thread, not the fabric, of the story.
Supporting Your Mental Wellness Journey
Victor’s exploration of trauma and healing is a reminder of the strength found in small, incremental steps. For those navigating their own personal struggles, products like Cetaphil Healing Ointment can symbolize small acts of self-care. It’s a soothing balm for both skin irritation and the soul—an accessible way to prioritize yourself amidst life’s demands.
Final Thoughts on ‘Sorry, Baby’
Sorry, Baby, set to release in UK cinemas this August, represents a new frontier in trauma narratives. It’s not just about survival but about growth, humor, and friendship in the face of adversity. Victor’s courageous storytelling reminds us that our stories are more than our struggles—they’re multifaceted, evolving, and, above all, uniquely our own.
For more information on coping resources, consider organizations like Rape Crisis in the UK or RAINN in the US. You’re never alone in your healing journey.
