A groundbreaking Netflix film, Joy, set to release on Friday, November 15, tells the stirring true story of the tireless journey to make in vitro fertilization (IVF) a reality. Through the lens of nurse Jean Purdy’s perspective, the film sheds light on the highs and lows of a decade-long pursuit that transformed fertility treatments and changed the lives of countless families worldwide.
A Story Rooted in Perseverance
At its core, Joy chronicles the collaborative efforts of three unsung heroes: nurse Jean Purdy, surgeon Patrick Steptoe, and scientist Robert Edwards. Played by Thomasin McKenzie, Bill Nighy, and James Norton respectively, the trio comes together to tackle one of the greatest medical challenges of their time—helping families conceive in cases where traditional methods failed.
In the 1970s, infertility was largely considered insurmountable. Couples had few, if any, options. The film depicts the relentless determination of Purdy, Steptoe, and Edwards as they worked to develop a revolutionary process called IVF, which involves fertilizing an egg outside the body and implanting the resulting embryo into the womb.
From Failure to Breakthroughs: The Journey of 282 Attempts
Directed by Ben Taylor, with Jack Thorne and Rachel Mason as co-directors, Joy captures the brutal reality of scientific failure and the emotional toll it takes. In their IVF research, the trio faced 282 failed implantations. Only five resulted in clinical pregnancies, none of which led to live births. The film does not shy away from these moments of despair but instead celebrates the persistence that kept the team going.
Through intimate storytelling, viewers see how the team’s work culminates in their fateful meeting with Lesley and John Brown. This couple’s participation in the experimental procedure led to the birth of Louise Joy Brown, the world’s first “test-tube baby,” in 1978 at Oldham General Hospital. It was a landmark moment in medical history, turning skeptics into believers and paving the way for millions of IVF births since.
The Role of Jean Purdy: A Forgotten Pioneer
The narrative centers on Jean Purdy, a nurse who played a pivotal role in the development of IVF yet remains largely overlooked in public accounts of its history. Her character, portrayed with depth and nuance by Thomasin McKenzie, serves as a reminder of the contributions of women in science and medicine that have often gone unacknowledged.
Purdy’s meticulous documentation of the IVF process and her emotional investment in the patients and the science underpin the film’s emotional resonance. As one of the first to recognize the potential of IVF, Purdy’s story is a vital thread that ties the narrative together, ensuring she receives the recognition she deserves.
A Film About Resilience and Hope
Joy also highlights the broader societal impact of the team’s work. In the 1970s, the concept of IVF was met with skepticism, ethical debates, and even ridicule. The film delves into the trio’s struggles against institutional barriers and public criticism, painting a vivid picture of the sacrifices required to achieve groundbreaking progress.
But beyond the scientific triumph, Joy is a deeply human story about hope. The birth of Louise Joy Brown symbolized not just a medical achievement but the realization of dreams for millions of families around the world. It is a testament to the power of resilience and the belief that failure is often the precursor to success.
Captivating Performances and Direction
The cast of Joy delivers compelling performances that bring this story to life. Bill Nighy captures the determination of surgeon Patrick Steptoe, while James Norton portrays the intellectual rigor and passion of scientist Robert Edwards. Thomasin McKenzie’s Jean Purdy is the emotional anchor of the story, her portrayal balancing vulnerability with unwavering resolve.
Directors Ben Taylor, Jack Thorne, and Rachel Mason create a cinematic experience that is both intimate and grand. The attention to detail in recreating the 1970s medical environment adds authenticity, while the focus on personal stories ensures the film resonates on a deeply emotional level.
A Legacy That Endures
More than four decades after the birth of Louise Joy Brown, IVF remains a vital option for families facing infertility. The work of Purdy, Steptoe, and Edwards laid the foundation for advancements that have since helped millions of children be born through assisted reproductive technologies.
By bringing their story to light, Joy not only celebrates a landmark achievement in medical history but also serves as a tribute to the individuals who dared to defy the odds. It is a reminder that progress often requires unwavering belief, even in the face of repeated setbacks.
