Watch Expecting

Expecting is a 2013 Canadian indie film by director Jasmin Mozaffari that explores the struggles and complexities of pregnancy in modern society. The film stars Lora Burke as Veronica, a middle-aged woman who unexpectedly becomes pregnant and must navigate the challenges of motherhood while also dealing with her personal demons. Matt Clarke plays her boyfriend, Harry, who is initially supportive of Veronica but begins to struggle with the idea of fatherhood as the pregnancy progresses.

The film opens with Veronica discovering she's pregnant during a routine check-up at a sexual health clinic. Although she's initially shocked and overwhelmed by the news, she decides to go ahead with the pregnancy and tells Harry. The couple's relationship is tested from the outset, as Harry questions whether he's ready for fatherhood and Veronica struggles to come to terms with the idea of being a mother.

As the pregnancy progresses, Veronica is forced to confront her own emotional baggage, which includes a history of addiction and trauma. She attends group therapy sessions with other expectant mothers, which provide a support network but also force her to confront uncomfortable truths about herself. Meanwhile, Harry becomes increasingly distant and struggles to connect with Veronica as her pregnancy takes over their lives.

The film is shot in a raw, gritty style that reflects the emotional turmoil experienced by the characters. Expecting explores a range of themes related to pregnancy, including fertility, abortion, addiction, and the pressures faced by modern women. The performances by Burke and Clarke are poignant and nuanced, capturing the complexity of their characters' emotional journeys.

One of the standout features of Expecting is its focus on the emotional realities of pregnancy, rather than just the physical journey. The film highlights the struggles faced by women who become pregnant unexpectedly, and the way in which pregnancy can force us to confront our own inner demons. The group therapy sessions, in particular, are a powerful exploration of the emotional dimensions of pregnancy, and the way in which women can support each other through this challenging time.

Overall, Expecting is a moving and thought-provoking film that offers a fresh perspective on the experience of pregnancy. It's a must-see for anyone interested in exploring the complex emotional terrain of motherhood, and the way in which pregnancy can challenge our notions of self and identity.