Pop Culture Happy Hour: "Watch This: Sorry, Baby" – Detailed Summary

Released on July 21, 2025

Introduction

In this engaging episode of NPR's Pop Culture Happy Hour, hosts Aisha Harris, Trevel Anderson, and Monica Castillo delve into the recently released film "Sorry, Baby." The discussion centers on the film's nuanced portrayal of trauma, friendship, and personal growth, highlighting Ava Victor's impressive debut as a filmmaker and performer.

Overview of "Sorry, Baby"

"Sorry, Baby" is a compelling narrative written, directed by, and starring Ava Victor. The film follows Agnes (played by Victor), a newly appointed professor at the liberal arts college where she earned her graduate degree—a place marred by her past sexual assault. The story intricately weaves Agnes's journey of healing with her evolving friendship with a former classmate, portrayed by Naomi Acke.

Trevel Anderson introduces the film by noting its central theme:

"Sorry Baby is a movie where a bad thing happens and the protagonist must deal with the fallout and... it announces Victor as a filmmaker and performer to watch." ([00:21])

Hosts' Initial Impressions

Trevel Anderson shares his initial skepticism after viewing the trailer:

"I felt like the trailer did not make it clear to me what I would be going into and seeing, but I was pleasantly surprised..." ([03:40])

He praises the film for its quiet moments and approachable handling of trauma, emphasizing its meditative quality on how trauma can immobilize individuals while their surroundings continue to evolve.

Monica Castillo echoes Anderson's sentiments, highlighting the film's tenderness and humor amidst pain:

"I love how Ava Victor is able to find the humor in these, like, really painful moments or these absurd moments." ([05:40])

She specifically mentions a scene where Agnes interacts with a doctor post-assault, commending the character Liddy (played by Naomi Acke) for advocating for her:

"...we have Liddy there to kind of speak up for her." ([05:40])

Balancing Trauma and Humor

The conversation delves into the delicate balance Victor strikes between depicting trauma and infusing humor. Anderson connects Victor's background with Reductress, a satirical platform, to explain the film's unique tone:

"That line of humor really bleeds into this film... balancing the humor while also acknowledging the trauma and the hurt." ([07:00])

Monica Castillo appreciates the film's chaptered structure, which mirrors Agnes's sporadic progress in healing:

"The story is structured in chapters, so we see her kind of figuring out in, like, fits and starts." ([06:51])

This structure allows viewers to witness Agnes's fluctuating ability to connect and move forward, portraying trauma as a non-linear journey.

Character Dynamics and Performances

The hosts commend the chemistry between Ava Victor and Naomi Acke, noting how their interactions add depth to the narrative. A standout character discussed is Gavin (played by Lucas Hedges), Agnes's neighbor.

Monica Castillo remarks on Gavin's role:

"He's a really interesting character. And I love that Victor writes him in such a way that he's not bad. He's good." ([11:39])

Their relationship showcases Agnes's comfort and discomfort in forming new connections post-trauma, exemplified in a tender bathtub scene that captures their mutual vulnerability:

"They are both very small, very on the taller side... It's a very tender moment." ([12:22])

John Carroll Lynch's portrayal of a supportive stranger further enriches the film's emotional landscape:

"That scene also just unfolds so beautiful... about those intimate, small moments." ([13:09])

Themes and Emotional Resonance

A significant portion of the discussion focuses on how "Sorry, Baby" addresses isolation and community within a collegial setting. Anderson reflects on the authentic portrayal of academic environments and the infighting that can exist within small communities:

"...how that small community can both feel very safe and welcoming, but also sort of hostile." ([08:46])

They also touch upon the film's exploration of personal agency and the constraints faced by Agnes in her professional and personal life:

"The decision whether or not she had felt like she had much of a decision... it's like it both speaks to the realities of academia, but also to the realities of what it can be like to try and rebuild and repair and just move on." ([15:29])

Final Impressions and Recommendations

The episode concludes with both hosts expressing their deep appreciation for the film's tenderness and emotional depth. Anderson shares his admiration for the film's final scene, describing it as:

"One of the most quotable things I can think of right now that just feels whatever you're going through, it's like, oof." ([15:29])

Monica Castillo adds:

"What a note to end on. Like that's how they end the movie. It's so powerful." ([16:14])

Ultimately, both hosts highly recommend "Sorry, Baby" for its beautifully crafted narrative and emotional resonance:

"Highly recommend. Absolutely. I think that's our ringing endorsement of it." ([16:36])

Conclusion

"Sorry, Baby" emerges as a powerful film that deftly navigates the complexities of trauma, healing, and human connection. Through its nuanced performances, thoughtful storytelling, and balanced tone, it offers a meaningful cinematic experience. Pop Culture Happy Hour encourages listeners to watch the film and engage with its poignant themes, affirming Ava Victor's promising entry into the filmmaking landscape.

Notable Quotes:

• Trevel Anderson ([03:40]): "This is one of those small movies, right, where the beauty of it is in these quiet moments."

• Monica Castillo ([05:40]): "I love how Ava Victor is able to find the humor in these, like, really painful moments or these absurd moments."

• Trevel Anderson ([07:00]): "The Reductress style of humor really bleeds into this film... balancing the humor while also acknowledging the trauma and the hurt."

• Monica Castillo ([12:22]): "They are both very small, very on the taller side... It's a very tender moment."

• Trevel Anderson ([15:29]): "The final scene just kind of knocked me out... it's one of the most quotable things I can think of."

For those interested in a heartfelt exploration of personal recovery and the intricate dynamics of friendships, "Sorry, Baby" is a must-watch. Join the conversation and share your thoughts on social media platforms listed in the episode description.