EXPECTING A film review by Steve Rhodes Copyright 2003 Steve Rhodes RATING (0 TO ****): ***
The background to the making of Deborah Day's EXPECTING is almost as fascinating as the movie itself, which has been a hit at many film festivals and is just about to open all across Canada. The director had the idea of making a movie about one full day in the birth of a baby. Assisted by a midwife, the mother, surrounded at her home by a collection of her friends, wiles away the time with humorous moments and mini-dramas until the baby decides to arrive. After working on their back stories for weeks, the actors got together for a three week shoot with totally improvised lines. Since they had a very pregnant lead (Valerie Buhagiar), time was of the essence. I asked producer Kirk Johnson, who was at our screening, if there was a plan B in case Buhagiar accidentally delivered for real before the filming was over. He said that there was no alternate plan. They just hoped for the best and didn't waste any time.
Starting with a bang, the GOLDFINGER-like opening features Buhagiar in light gold body paint, dancing with joy since her bundle of joy is on the way. Completely nude except for her panties, she reminds viewers of how beautiful and sexy a pregnant woman can be. After the dance, we cut to her having -- are you ready for this? -- sex. The reactions to these two sequences are likely to be a blend of laughter, arousal, shock and awe. This is a life-affirming comedy that's confident and smart, and the zany ensemble cast (Angela Gei, Derwin Jordan, Debra McGrath, Tom Melissis, Colin Mochrie, Karl Pruner and Barbara Radecki) doesn't miss a beat.
After the opening, the story takes more traditional but completely satisfying turns. I'll not reveal any more of this cinematic treat. You don't want to miss this charmer.
EXPECTING runs 1:32. It is not rated but would be an R for nudity, sex and brief language and would be acceptable for older teenagers.
The film is being shown as part of San Jose's Cinequest Film Festival (www.Cinequest.org), which runs February 27 to March 9, 2003.
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