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Joy - The Birth of IVF is a British biographical drama that premiered on Netflix on November 22, 2024. Directed by Ben Taylor, the film explores the true story of the pioneers behind in vitro fertilization (IVF). The screenplay is based on extensive research, including archival materials and interviews with the scientists' families.
The story focuses on the efforts of Jean Purdy, Dr. Robert Edwards, and Patrick Steptoe, who worked in the 1960s and 1970s to develop IVF, leading to the birth of Louise Brown, the first “test-tube baby,” in 1978. The movie depicts Jean Purdy's struggle with endometriosis as her motivation for the research, although it's not clear if she really had the condition.
The film stars Thomasin McKenzie as Jean Purdy, James Norton as Dr. Robert Edwards, and Bill Nighy as Patrick Steptoe, the IVF pioneers. Joanna Scanlan, Charlie Murphy, Tanya Moodie, and Ella Bruccoleri play supporting roles. The cast shows the scientific and emotional journey of the first "test-tube baby" in compelling performances.
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Joy - The Birth of IVF: Main cast and their roles
1) Thomasin McKenzie as Jean Purdy
McKenzie portrays Jean Purdy in Joy - The Birth of IVF, a nurse and embryologist who played a significant role in the development of IVF. McKenzie is known for her roles in Jojo Rabbit, Leave No Trace, Eileen, and Last Night in Soho.
2) James Norton as Dr. Robert Edwards
Norton plays Dr. Robert Edwards, the visionary scientist who, alongside his colleagues, made IVF a reality. Norton's notable works include Happy Valley and Little Women.
3) Bill Nighy as Patrick Steptoe
In Joy - The Birth of IVF, Nighy plays Patrick Steptoe, the surgeon who collaborated with Purdy and Edwards. Nighy has an extensive filmography, including Love Actually and The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel.
Supporting Cast
- Joanna Scanlan portrays Gladys, who is recognized for her roles in The Thick of It, Big School, Girl With a Pearl Earring, and Notes on a Scandal.
- Charlie Murphy plays Trisha, connecting with the personal stories intertwined with the scientific journey. Murphy is known for her work in Black Jesus and Harlem Nights.
- Miles Jupp takes on the role of George, bringing his comedic talent to the film. He is known for Rev. and The Thick of It.
- Emily Fairn portrays Lily, contributing to the human stories behind the scientific achievements. She is recognized for her roles in Black Mirror, The Responder, Mary & George, and Saturday Night.
- Nicholas Rowe plays James Watson, a part of the scientific journey. His filmography includes Young Sherlock Holmes and Operation Mincemeat.
- Louisa Harland takes on the role of Rachel, contributing to the film's ensemble cast. She is known for her work in Derry Girls and Woody Harrelson's Lost in London.
- Pip Torrens portrays Roger Short. He is recognized for The Danish Girl, The Iron Lady, War Horse, and Star Wars: The Force Awakens.
- Adrian Lukis, as Professor Mason, adds depth to the film's academic portrayal. His previous works include Pride and Prejudice and Down to Earth.
Crew details
Joy - The Birth of IVF is directed by Ben Taylor, known for his work on S*x Education. The film is produced by Finola Dwyer and Amanda Posey for Wildgaze, with Cameron McCracken overseeing the project for Pathé.
The screenplay, developed by Jack Thorne and Rachel Mason, is informed by extensive research, including archival materials and interviews with the scientists’ families. Jack and Rachel Mason, along with Emma Gordon and Shaun Topp, came up with the story. The film also incorporates a real letter written by Edwards advocating for Purdy’s recognition in the history of IVF.
Director Ben Taylor and the creators have personal connections to the subject, bringing authenticity and sensitivity to the story of these individuals and their scientific achievements.
Plot of Joy - The Birth of IVF
Joy - The Birth of IVF is an accurate account of the pioneering efforts of three scientists—Jean Purdy, Dr. Robert Edwards, and Patrick Steptoe—who developed in vitro fertilization (IVF).
The film, set in the 1960s and 1970s, commences with nurse Jean Purdy assuming the role of lab manager alongside Dr. Robert Edwards in Cambridge. They collaborate with surgeon Patrick Steptoe, a specialist in gynecological laparoscopy, to devise a scientific solution for infertility.
The trio faces many issues, including financial insecurity, public and media criticism, and government and religious opposition. Despite these issues, they work to improve IVF, which involves fertilizing an egg outside the womb and implanting it. Louise Brown was the first IVF baby.
Joy - The Birth of IVF depicts the team's moral, personal, and social pressures while showing their dedication to improving reproductive medicine.
Joy - The Birth of IVF is available to stream on Netflix.
