Netflix subscribers have been gushing about a period drama film rooted in an extraordinary true story, whilst others have savoured a “compelling” historical drama and some have hailed a “dazzling” period piece, reports the Mirror.
The film debuted last year but might have slipped past some viewers’ attention, though others have penned glowing testimonials on IMDb.
One viewer shared in their 10/10 assessment: “Insanely heartwarming, inspiring and Beautiful.
“Loved every second of it, pacing was perfect. Narrative moved so smoothly filled with emotion and human beauty. In a world filled with harm and brutality, stories like these renews my faith in humanity and its purity to make good.”
A second critic branded it “an important movie” in their 10/10 evaluation and remarked: “Thank you so much to the filmmakers and actors who gave world-class performances. I can’t fault the movie at all. It’s a must-watch.”
A third highly-rated assessment proclaimed the film “an absolute must-watch” and noted: “This is a movie you can watch over and over and not get bored.”
A fourth individual commended the film as “a moving story” and celebrated the cast: “The lead actors all gave excellent performances and the story was well told.”
Another viewer penned in their 10/10 assessment: “The film is excellent and all the acting superb! A very definite ‘feel good’ film.”
One glowing review described it as a “beautiful film”, stating: “As someone who is currently 34 weeks pregnant through IVF after years of infertility, I found this film deeply moving and beautifully documented. It gave me a renewed appreciation for the people who have made IVF possible.”
Joy, available on Netflix, tells the true story of three trailblazing British scientists Jean Purdy (portrayed by Thomasin McKenzie), Robert Edwards (James Norton), and Patrick Steptoe (Bill Nighy). These pioneers developed IVF during the 1960s and 70s, facing significant opposition, yet providing hope to millions worldwide.
The trio collaborated at the University of Cambridge, conducting groundbreaking research in reproduction that laid the foundation for IVF.
Joy not only chronicles their research but also explores how their personal lives were impacted by their work, with many critics labelling them ‘Frankenstein’ and ostracising them.
The film focuses on nurse and embryologist Purdy, whose contributions to IVF have been largely overlooked, shedding light on her vital work.
In addition to the three leads, the film features an impressive supporting cast, including Adrian Lukis from Pride and Prejudice, Ruth Madeley of Years and Years, Joanna Scanlan from The Thick of It, Silo’s Tanya Moodie, Charlie Murphy from Peaky Blinders, Bridgerton’s Harriet Cains, Pip Torrens from The Crown, Derry Girls’ Louisa Harland, and Ella Bruccoleri from Call the Midwife, among others.
The film was a joint venture between esteemed scriptwriter Jack Thorne and his partner Rachel Mason, who dedicated their time during the Covid-19 pandemic to research and write it.
The project held a personal significance for the couple, who had a child through IVF, as reported by Netflix’s Tudum.
Mason shared with the outlet: “Like so many women, [Purdy’s] role had been overlooked.
“It’s a story that hadn’t been told, and both Bob [Edwards] and Patrick [Steptoe] were very keen that Jean was recognized [sic].”
Joy is streaming on Netflix now
