It was with a tinge of embarrassment that I confessed to my coworkers I had never seen the 1987 classic ‘Baby Boom.’ How could I have missed Diane Keaton portraying a high-flying management consultant who unexpectedly inherits not a fortune, but a charming little girl? My colleagues were incredulous. I attempted to justify my cinematic gap by stating I was busy watching more prominent films from that year like ‘Moonstruck,’ ‘Dirty Dancing,’ and ‘Broadcast News,’ but they weren’t having it. Their disapproving silence led me to admit my lack of film knowledge and agree to dedicate two hours to Nancy Meyers’ film—even though I was skeptical that a story about a woman juggling career and motherhood in the late ’80s would resonate in 2015 (after all, it would take four more years before single moms like Murphy Brown were called out by politicians for their choices).
As it turns out, we were all somewhat correct. ‘Baby Boom’ is indeed a delightful blend of workplace comedy and family drama that I enjoyed, and I likely would have loved it as a teenager. Yet, it also felt cringeworthy; the treatment of J.C. by her male colleagues reflects a reality that still exists today. I found myself chuckling at both how far we’ve come and how some things remain unchanged.
1. The Opening Scene
The film opens with women in power suits and big hair, accompanied by a voiceover declaring, “Sociologists say the new working woman is the phenomenon of our time.” I laughed at the absurdity of calling this “new” and felt a pang of nostalgia for simpler issues—now we’re grappling with things like revenge porn.
2. The Tiger Lady
Diane Keaton’s character, J.C., is dubbed “The Tiger Lady” at work, and it’s perplexing why she embraces such a sexist moniker. It’s like someone calling themselves “That Bossy Woman.” By the way, can we take a moment to appreciate that Diane Keaton hasn’t aged a day in 28 years?
3. Heartthrob James Spader
Let’s not forget, James Spader was quite the heartthrob back then—just in case anyone’s memory has been clouded by ‘The Blacklist.’
4. Shoulder Pads
Shoulder pads, while they may seem excessive now, actually have a geometric charm. Sure, they give a linebacker vibe, but they’re not all that bad.
5. Chic Suits
J.C.’s belted suits are undeniably chic. Why have we strayed from pairing wide belts with our suits? Michelle Obama showed us it was cool to wear belts over cardigans, so let’s bring back the belted shoulder-padded look! #trendspotting
6. Status Symbols
One of the film’s standout moments is J.C. on a phone call in bed, sporting a nightgown that mimics a dress shirt. Plus, she has a Rolodex by her bedside table—talk about a status symbol! Not to mention her boyfriend implies she’d be helpless without a speakerphone, which at the time was cutting-edge tech.
7. The Baby Handoff
The baby handoff at the TWA arrivals lounge raises several questions: How did she get through security? What happened to TWA? And what kind of will permits this handoff? Note to self: it’s time to update my will.
8. Coat Check Comedy
J.C. dropping the baby off at coat check in a fancy restaurant is played for laughs, but such a scenario seems implausible in a modern film—thankfully!
9. Shopping Spree
On a humorous shopping spree at FAO Schwarz, J.C. buys her daughter a Cricket doll, which was famous for asking, “Are we having fun or what?”
10. Adoption Agency
The adoption agency looks more like a school principal’s office, and J.C. seems to treat the child like a yard sale item—passing her around without a care. The lack of red tape is both funny and a bit alarming.
11. Workplace Discrimination
J.C.’s bosses take away her demanding account because she’s a “frazzled mom,” and her cry of “I’m not going to turn into Erma Bombeck!” made me ponder how many women face similar discrimination today, albeit in subtler forms.
12. Playground Fashion
J.C.’s friends on the playground are a sight to behold, with their oversized outfits and hairstyles. The fashion choices are something else entirely—perhaps an unintentional American Apparel campaign?
13. Sam Shepard
After moving to Vermont, J.C.’s love interest is played by Sam Shepard. I refrained from objectifying him too much, but I couldn’t help but Google “young Sam Shepard” and reflect on how time changes us all—actors, hit films, even the twins who played Baby Elizabeth.
14. Fun Fact
Fun fact for fans: ‘Baby Boom’ was adapted into a short-lived TV series in 1988 starring Kate Jackson, along with Joy Behar and Susie Essman. Yes, I missed that too, but at least I’ve finally seen the movie.
In summary, watching ‘Baby Boom’ was a delightful experience mixed with moments of cringe-worthy realization about how some issues persist. The film highlights the challenges of balancing work and family, showcasing both the humor and difficulties that come with motherhood.
Keyphrase: Baby Boom reflections
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