Suburban Joy in Call Jane by Phyllis Nagy

Set against the tumultuous backdrop of 1968 Chicago, Call Jane presents a compelling narrative centered on Joy, a suburban housewife played by Elizabeth Banks, whose life takes an unexpected turn when a life-threatening heart condition complicates her pregnancy. Her struggle to obtain a safe, legal abortion exposes her to the stark realities of an unsympathetic, male-dominated medical establishment, ultimately leading her to Virginia and Gwen, two courageous and forward-thinking women operating within a clandestine network.

Directed by Phyllis Nagy, Call Jane deftly captures the spirit of the late-sixties social and political unrest. The film’s visual aesthetic, beautifully shot on 16mm film, creates a striking contrast between the sterile, impersonal environment of hospitals and the vibrant, hidden spaces where women are actively fighting for their reproductive rights and bodily autonomy.

Elizabeth Banks delivers a powerful and nuanced performance as Joy, embodying a woman who, despite facing seemingly insurmountable obstacles, finds inner strength and determination. Sigourney Weaver and Wunmi Mosaku provide compelling portrayals of Virginia and Gwen, the women who offer Joy vital support during her desperate search for options. Their performances emphasize the power of female solidarity and collective action in the face of systemic oppression.

Call Jane transcends the boundaries of a typical film about women's rights; it serves as a potent reminder of the power of collective action and the ongoing need to advocate for justice. Joy's journey becomes symbolic of the broader struggle for women's autonomy and control over their own bodies. Grounded in historical events, the film’s narrative is both moving and thought-provoking, underscoring the continued relevance of the fight for women's reproductive freedom.

Call Jane, co-written by Hayley Schore and Roshan Sethi, and directed by Phyllis Nagy—who received an Oscar nomination for Best Adapted Screenplay for the 16mm-originated Carol—is both timely and inspiring, reminding viewers of the progress that has been made while also highlighting the battles that remain to be fought.