Sorry, Baby is a funny and hard-hitting dramedy that marks an impressive directorial debut from Eva Victor, who also wrote and starred in the picture. The film centres on Agnes, and how over the course of several years she comes to terms with a sexual assault she suffered whilst at university, as well as dealing with changing circumstances upon graduating and becoming a professor. I would describe it as a “coming-of-age” story, albeit one that takes place after/towards the end of education, instead of the usual high school/fresher setting.
The story is told in a nonlinear order, with different “chapters” representing different years in Agnes’ life. This allows for some creative set ups and payoffs and a more engaging display of plot beats and moments than if presented chronologically. Dramedies often live or die based on their dialogue and performances. Sorry, Baby is not only well written, but is also admirably acted. The script effectively carries the film’s sense of humour while also delivering in dramatic and emotional moments. The piece as a whole balances its tone well. Serious subject matter and dark humour are handled masterfully, with the two often appearing in the same scene without ever jarring.
Eva Victor portrays Agnes incredibly well, creating a protagonist who is easy to root for throughout the film as well as carrying some of the more poignant scenes. The supporting cast deserves a mention, with certain characters coming across very strongly, even with little screen time: most notably Naomi Ackie (Blink Twice, Mickey 17) as best friend, Lydie; Lucas Hedges (Lady Bird, Boy Erased) as Agnes’ boyfriend, Gavin; and Kelly McCormack (Sugar Daddy, Letterkenny) as antagonistic classmate, Natasha.
The picture’s general tone and style of storytelling should be familiar to fans of other dramedies. I found it reminiscent in many ways to Manchester by The Sea, which shares a similar balance of comedy and heavy themes (and also starred Lucas Hedges). I would recommend Sorry, Baby to anyone who is a fan of character driven, bildungsroman stories — a strong opener for EIFF 2025.
The 78th Edinburgh International Film Festival ran from the 14th to the 20th August 2025. Sorry, Baby screened as part of the Spotlight strand.
Press image provided by EIFF 2025 for press use.