Watch The Face of Birth

The Face of Birth is a documentary film that takes an intimate look at childbirth in Australia. The film follows the journey of several pregnant women and their partners as they prepare for the birth of their children in various settings, including hospitals and birth centers, and with the assistance of doctors, midwives, and doulas.

The film is directed by Kate Gorman and Gavin Banks, and features interviews with experts in the field of childbirth, including midwives, obstetricians, pediatricians, and anthropologists. The filmmakers set out to explore the growing trend of medicalized childbirth in Australia and to challenge the notion that childbirth is a medical event rather than a natural, physiological process.

Throughout the film, we witness the pain, joy, and vulnerability of childbirth as experienced by the women and their partners. We see the challenges they face in navigating the healthcare system, the decisions they must make about pain management and interventions, and the emotions that arise as they welcome their babies into the world.

The film also delves into the history of childbirth and the cultural attitudes that have shaped our current understanding of birth. The filmmakers take us on a journey through time, from the earliest depictions of childbirth in art and literature to the rise of obstetrics in the 19th century and the emergence of the natural birth movement in the 20th century.

One of the strengths of the film is its diverse cast of characters, who represent a range of backgrounds and experiences. We meet women who have had previous traumatic childbirth experiences, women who have chosen to give birth at home, and women who have opted for elective cesarean sections. We also hear from partners who offer their perspectives on the process and from healthcare professionals who provide insights into the challenges of their work.

The cinematography in the film is stunning, with breathtaking footage of the Australian landscape and intimate shots of the birth process. The filmmakers use a mix of live action and animation to illustrate the science behind childbirth, from the mechanics of contractions to the hormones involved in the birthing process.

The Face of Birth is a thought-provoking and empowering film that challenges our assumptions about childbirth and highlights the need for greater autonomy and respect for women and their choices. It is a must-see for anyone interested in the subject of birth and the intersection of culture, medicine, and biology.

The Face of Birth is a 2012 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 27 minutes. It has received outstanding reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 9.3.