Film JOY-The Birth of IVF Treatments with Bill Nighy

Newly released on Netflix, the film JOY is based on the true story behind the founding pioneers of in vitro fertilization IVF treatments. The name Lesley Brown may be remembered as the first woman to successfully deliver a child through the use of IVF, the three names that are responsible for the inception and development of this process are not household names. This admirable but laborious film pays tribute to the two Drs. and nurse who dedicated a decade of lives to providing infertile couples an opportunity to conceive a child. It also paints a picture of the backlash and resistance IVF was initially met with from the church, general public, and the scientific community reluctant to provide essential funding.  While noteworthy, it doesn't provide sufficient conflict or drama to generate enough excitement to hold one's interest. The genesis for what has become commonly accepted as a method for making childbirth a reality for millions dealing with infertility didn't germinate into great storytelling.  The movie elected to focus on Gene Purdy (Thomas McKenzie) a nurse and embryologist who is credited along with Dr. Robert Edward (James Norton) and Dry Patrick Steptoe (Bill Nighy) for developing IVF and making the first test-tube baby, Louise Joy Brown, a reality in the summer of 1978. Bill Nighy is always worth watching and is marvelous as the steadfast Dr. who grasps the significance of what they are doing. Norton needs to do more than rely on his good looks. His character, though intrinsic to their collaboration, was thinly drawn. McKenzie does a lot more with her role of being indomitable in her mission despite being ostracized by both her church and her mother for a time because her work was considered sinful. The movie succeeded in conveying the desperation of the women vying for a child. Though, knowing how imperative IVF has become mitigates the push portrayed against its usage. Too much time is spent in the lab watching them work or falling asleep. It was tiresome. The musical tract and fashions of the 60s & 70s did little to lift the film. Repetitious scenes in diners and cars also wore out their welcome. The extra melodrama of Purdy's infertility and her mother's death after their reconciliation felt maudlin and unnecessary. Dr. Norton did make a toast on the eve of Louise Joy Brown's birth to Purdy, Steptoe and those who helped bring about the fruition of IVF saying ..."do not forget how significant what they achieved today is."  Recognition for the mavericks who persevered to make maternity possibile where it wasn't 50 years prior is nice to know but not worth the gestation period of watching JOY. * (The middle name Dr Norton was honored to bestow).