Recently, I found myself admitting to my colleagues that I had never seen the 1987 film ‘Baby Boom,’ a notable piece of feminist cinema. They were astonished that I had missed Diane Keaton portraying a high-powered management consultant in New York City who unexpectedly inherits not a fortune but a baby girl. I tried to justify my oversight by pointing to other significant films from that year, like ‘Moonstruck’ and ‘Dirty Dancing.’ However, my colleagues insisted I rectify this gap in my cinematic education, so I settled in for a viewing, skeptical that a late ’80s film about balancing career and motherhood would resonate in 2015.
As it turns out, I was both right and wrong. ‘Baby Boom’ is indeed a charming workplace comedy that I enjoyed, though I might have cherished it more if I’d seen it in my youth. Yet, it also evokes discomfort; the film’s portrayal of workplace discrimination against a working mother feels unfortunately relevant even today. I found myself reflecting on various elements throughout the film:
- The opening sequences depict women in power suits and big hair, accompanied by a voiceover stating, “Sociologists say the new working woman is the phenomenon of our time.” It made me chuckle, then reflect sadly on how the “new phenomenon” has evolved into more troubling issues, like revenge porn.
- Diane Keaton’s character, J.C., is dubbed “The Tiger Lady” at work, a nickname she seemingly embraces. This raises questions about why she would accept a sexist label akin to calling herself “That Bitch.” By the way, Keaton appears to defy aging; she looks remarkably unchanged.
- James Spader’s youthful appeal is undeniable, in case anyone forgot due to his role in ‘The Blacklist.’
- Shoulder pads, while not universally favored today, have a certain geometric charm that’s hard to dismiss.
- The belted suits sported by J.C. are undeniably stylish. It’s time we reintroduced wide belts into our work attire, as noted by Michelle Obama.
- One memorable scene features J.C. taking a phone call in bed, her nightgown echoing the style of a dress shirt, alongside a Rolodex—a symbol of status at the time. The mention of speakerphones takes me back; they were a pinnacle of technology back then.
- The film’s handling of J.C. receiving the baby in an airport made me ponder how security measures have changed and what kind of will would allow such a transfer. A reminder to review my own will is in order.
- The absurdity of J.C. dropping her baby at a restaurant coat check is a humorous exaggeration, but it’s hard to picture such scenarios playing out in today’s films.
- During a shopping spree, J.C. gifts her daughter a Cricket doll, known for its catchphrase, “Are we having fun or what?”
- The adoption agency scene where J.C. almost gives up her child feels surreal, akin to a yard sale transaction. The ease of child transfer depicted is both hilarious and disconcerting.
- J.C.’s struggles at work due to her motherhood, including losing a key account and being passed over for partnership, resonate. Her assertion, “I’m not going to turn into Erma Bombeck!” highlights the ongoing challenges women face in balancing career and family even today.
- Observing J.C.’s friends at the playground, I noted the 80s hair and fashion, reminiscent of a retro campaign.
- J.C.’s romantic interest is played by a young Sam Shepard. It’s curious to see how actors evolve over time—aging is an inevitable truth we all face.
- An interesting tidbit: ‘Baby Boom’ was adapted into a TV series in 1988, featuring Kate Jackson. I admit I missed that too, but I hope my colleagues can forgive my cultural blind spot after finally watching the film.
In summary, my experience watching ‘Baby Boom’ in 2015 revealed the film’s blend of humor and uncomfortable truths about women’s roles in both work and family life. It’s a reminder of how far we’ve come and how much still needs to change.
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Keyphrase: Baby Boom film reflections
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