By Robert Yaniz Jr.
Elizabeth Banks and Sigourney Weaver shine in an all-too-relevant tale of women’s rights.
THE HYPE
As Hollywood grapples with the ever-shifting streaming age, Call Jane is exactly the kind of mid-budget movie liable to get lost in the shuffle. The film lacks the stylized spectacle, broad humor, or high concepts that so often secure a theatrical release. However, its subject matter — as well as its skilled cast and crew — makes it an easy one to recommend to moviegoers.
THE STORY
Elizabeth Banks stars as Joy, a 1960s housewife who finds herself faced with a life-threatening pregnancy. Since abortion isn’t exactly a legal option, Joy is forced to pursue an alternative way to reclaim her bodily autonomy. The answer lies in a cryptic ad advising women in need to “call Jane.” And in doing so, Joy becomes a part of something much bigger than herself. It’s no surprise that Call Jane feels especially relevant in the current political climate. The fight for equality often feels like an interminable struggle, and director Phyllis Nagy underscores just how necessary that vigilance is.
THE CAST
Banks has always been a gifted comedic actor, and while Call Jane isn’t really a comedy, she brings a light touch to Joy. A story this pointed requires the right tone to ground it. And Banks brings a balance of vulnerability and strength that draws viewers into her character’s journey. Likewise, Sigourney Weaver lends her natural gravitas and power to Virginia. And Chris Messina is solid in his undercooked role as Joy’s husband. But Cory Michael Smith — who also appears in the Nagy-scripted Carol — delivers the most memorable supporting turn as a morally ambiguous doctor.
THE PRODUCTION
Nagy — whose only previous directorial experience was the 2005 television movie Mrs. Harris — lends an intimacy to Call Jane that befits the delicate story at hand. And though the script by Haley Shore and Roshan Sethi has its sights on a much larger scope than it’s able to grasp, Call Jane resists the urge to dip into melodrama throughout. Instead, the political backdrop featured in the film provides the larger context for Joy’s personal growth.
THE VERDICT
Call Jane doesn’t have the bandwidth to give its subject matter as thorough an exploration as it deserves. But it does scratch the surface in an entertaining way, bolstered by strong performances and a breezy script. The film has a lot to say and does so in a way that is both respectful to the complicated questions it raises and also accessible to casual moviegoers. In short, Call Jane is a sufficient call to action arriving at what may be the opportune time.
Call Jane is now playing in theaters.