On February 5th, Netflix released its newest comedy film, “Kinda Pregnant,” starring the well-known comedian Amy Schumer. This film takes a clever but somewhat wonky look at the challenges of motherhood through the eyes of a woman who is not quite prepared for the journey ahead. Over the course of 1 hour and 38 minutes, viewers follow Lainy Newton as she navigates her feelings of jealousy and confusion when her best friend Kate announces her pregnancy. What comes next is an awkward and humorous adventure as Lainy decides to fake her pregnancy to handle her feelings.
What is ‘Kinda Pregnant’ About?
Under the direction of Tyler Spindel, Schumer co-wrote the film with Julie Paiva. In “Kinda Pregnant,” Schumer plays Lainy, a Brooklyn schoolteacher who grapples with her desire to be a mother while feeling increasingly left behind as her friends move on with their lives. The story kicks off when Lainy’s closest friend, Kate, shares her happy baby news, prompting feelings of jealousy and longing in Lainy. To cope, Lainy whimsically decides to pretend that she is expecting a child herself, which hilariously spirals out of control.
The Star-Studded Cast
Alongside Schumer, the film features a talented cast that includes Will Forte, who plays Josh—a Zamboni driver and Lainy’s love interest. The film also stars Damon Wayans Jr., Jillian Bell, and Urzila Carlson, who add to the colorful array of characters. Their interactions contribute to the comedic chaos as they try to decipher Lainy’s strange new reality, which is both funny and relatable.
The Theme of Friendship and Motherhood
At its core, “Kinda Pregnant” attempts to tackle serious themes like friendship and the societal pressures surrounding motherhood. Lainy’s journey reflects a blend of heartfelt and hilarious moments that illustrate the often complicated emotions that arise when friends embark on different life paths. While on the surface, the film presents a light-hearted narrative, it really aims to delve deeper into the struggles and joys of wanting to start a family.
Mixed Reviews and Reception
Despite the buzz surrounding Amy Schumer’s return to the screen, critics have mixed feelings about “Kinda Pregnant.” It has been described as a film that tries hard for laughs but often falls short. Some reviewers pointed out that it relies heavily on physical comedy and familiar tropes often seen in rom-coms. The film’s reception has sparked conversations about the originality of its humor, with some feeling it treads on well-worn territory.
What Viewers Are Saying
- Many have noted Schumer’s ability to comically reveal the awkwardness of aging and friendship.
- Some viewers appreciated the sincere moments that contrasted with the slapstick humor.
- However, others found the plot predictable and felt the comedic elements did not deliver the anticipated laughs.
The Bottom Line
“Kinda Pregnant” provides a glimpse into the comedic side of pregnancy and the feelings that come along with it, though it may not satisfy everyone. While some moments resonate with audience experiences, the overall execution has been deemed less than impressive. The film undoubtedly has its amusing moments, yet many believe it misses the mark on fully embracing its potential as a unique comedy. For fans of Amy Schumer, this film might still be worth a watch, but perhaps with tempered expectations.