Imagine watching a film that not only captivates you with its storytelling but also challenges your perceptions of trauma and friendship—this is precisely what makes the 2025 release 'Sorry, Baby' a must-see on HBO Max. But here's where it gets controversial: while many movies claim to handle sensitive topics with care, few succeed as gracefully and powerfully as this debut by Eva Victor. If you're seeking a movie that combines sharp humor with heartfelt depth, this film might just become one of your favorites from the year.
Eva Victor's first feature, 'Sorry, Baby,' has journeyed from its initial Sundance buzz to widespread critical acclaim. With an impressive 97% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, the film’s positive reception is more than justified. It’s a clever, invigorating black comedy that oscillates perfectly between genuine hilarity and poignant exploration of trauma’s lingering effects. You might expect Victor to lean heavily into the emotional weight of these experiences, but instead, they portray it with a sincere acknowledgment—focusing on the importance of moving forward and eventually outgrowing the pain. Still, there are moments when the old wounds resurface, making Agnes (Victor) question everything about who she is becoming.
At the heart of Agnes’ journey is her relationship with Lydie, played superbly by Naomi Ackie (also noted for her role in Bong Joon Ho's 'Mickey 17'). Their friendship acts as the sturdy anchor in the narrative, providing stability and grounding the story in reality. Their shared memories add layers of warmth, humor, and authenticity, making their reunion all the more impactful. As BJ Colangelo from /Film explains in an insightful interview with Victor and Ackie, the relationship’s significance extends beyond surface-level friendship. The director shared that the storytelling was intentionally non-linear:
"I always framed it as a non-chronological story because I wanted to begin with the friendship—the joy, the connection—so viewers understand this is about healing through relationships. If you tell it straightforwardly, starting with the traumatic event, you miss the point that this film is about real people coping and finding solace in each other."
So, let’s delve into why this film stands out among the year's best and why it deserves your attention.
'Sorry, Baby' is an unconventional yet profoundly resonant debut feature. Trauma-centered narratives often risk sensationalizing pain or reducing survivors’ stories to narrow stereotypes, but Victor’s approach steers clear of these pitfalls. Instead of dramatizing traumatic assaults with graphic intensity, the film emphasizes the resilience of everyday life, even when overshadowed by painful memories. Lydie’s friendship becomes a healing balm, offering comfort that feels genuine, tender, and enduring.
This contrast between Agnes and Lydie highlights the differing paths their lives have taken. While Lydie focuses on building a family and embracing her future, Agnes is more preoccupied with mere survival, finding solace in the predictability of her routine. That’s perfectly valid—healing isn’t a straight road, and Agnes doesn’t need to constantly push herself to change for the sake of growth. The depth of emotional intimacy in their friendship reveals a different kind of strength, one built on feeling safe and understood. Both Victor and Ackie bring a natural, nuanced chemistry to their roles, portraying a relationship that feels authentic and relatable.
Currently available on HBO Max, 'Sorry, Baby' offers a rare chance to immerse yourself in a well-crafted world where genuine human connection shines through amidst complex emotional landscapes. This film is also one of the most memorable and thoughtfully distributed works from A24 in recent times, making it worth your time if you’re curious about exploring honest portrayals of healing, friendship, and resilience. Do you believe that stories like Agnes’ should focus more on hope and growth rather than sensationalizing pain? Share your thoughts—and your disagreements—in the comments!
