‘Kinda Pregnant’ Netflix Movie Review - A Comedy that Delivers... Sort of

When I heard Amy Schumer was back with a new Netflix comedy, "Kinda Pregnant," I was ready for a belly laugh. The premise? Lainy, played by Schumer, is so green-eyed over her friend's baby bump that she straps on a fake one herself. It's a setup ripe for hilarity, but does it deliver a bundle of joy or just gas?

Let's start with the good news. Schumer's signature humor shines through in moments, reminding us why we loved her in "Trainwreck." Her portrayal of Lainy has flashes of genuine emotion, especially when navigating the tangled web of her own making. The supporting cast, including the ever-quirky Jillian Bell and the always-entertaining Will Forte, add some sparkle to the mix. And let's not forget Urzila Carlson, who, in her film debut as the no-nonsense guidance counselor Fallon, steals scenes with effortless charm.

The film does have its moments. A particular scene where Lainy attends a prenatal yoga class had me chuckling, as she fumbles through poses, trying to keep her secret intact. The awkwardness of her situation leads to some genuine laughs, and there's a certain satisfaction in seeing her navigate the consequences of her deception.

However, for a comedy centered on such a bold premise, "Kinda Pregnant" often feels like it's playing it safe. The jokes can be predictable, and the narrative doesn't venture far from the beaten path. Directed by Tyler Spindel, the film has that unmistakable Netflix sheen—bright, and polished, but lacking depth. It's like a store-bought cake: sweet, and enjoyable, but missing that homemade touch.

The writing, a collaboration between Schumer and Julie Paiva, leans heavily on physical comedy and familiar gags. While Schumer's candid discussions about body image and societal expectations have been refreshing in the past, here they feel recycled. The film touches on themes like the pressures women face regarding motherhood and the envy that can arise among friends, but these topics are only skin-deep, leaving a craving for more substantial exploration.

One can't help but feel that the movie misses opportunities to delve deeper into its characters. Lainy's motivations for faking a pregnancy are clear, but the film skirts around the emotional complexities of such a decision. Instead, it opts for slapstick moments, which, while occasionally funny, don't offer much in terms of character development.

The supporting characters, though portrayed by talented actors, often feel one-dimensional. Damon Wayans Jr. plays the charming love interest, but his character lacks depth, serving more as a plot device than a fully realized person. Similarly, Brianne Howey's portrayal of Lainy's pregnant friend is sympathetic, but we don't get to see much beyond her role as the catalyst for Lainy's envy.

Visually, the film doesn't break any new ground. The cinematography is straightforward, the settings are generic, and there's little visual storytelling that stands out. It's a standard comedy setup that doesn't take any risks, which is a missed opportunity given the film's unique premise.

In the end, "Kinda Pregnant" is like that friend who tells the same joke at every party. It's familiar, it elicits a chuckle, but it doesn't leave a lasting impression. While it's a lighthearted watch that might fill an evening, don't expect it to be the bundle of joy you'd hoped for.

Final Score- [4/10]
Reviewed by - Anjali Sharma
Follow @AnjaliS54769166 on Twitter
Publisher at Midgard Times