Babes (2024) Characters, Setting & Themes Explained

Babes is set in New York City, a vibrant metropolis that serves as a dynamic backdrop for the story. The city's diverse culture and bustling atmosphere contribute significantly to the characters' journeys throughout the film.

• setting
• location
• new york city
• new york

Babes takes place in a contemporary, modern-day setting. The narrative captures the essence of present-day life, including the challenges of balancing personal and professional responsibilities, with events unfolding during milestones like Thanksgiving and New Year's Eve.

• time period
• contemporary
• modern
• era

Motherhood is the central theme of Babes, exploring the emotional complexities faced by both Eden and Dawn as they navigate pregnancy and childcare. The film portrays the joys and tribulations of becoming a mother, examining how it impacts friendships and personal identity.

• motherhood
• pregnancy
• parenting
• mother

Loss weaves through the narrative, particularly with the tragic passing of Claude. This theme adds depth to Eden's journey as she grapples with grief while discovering new beginnings. The impact of loss highlights the importance of connection, memory, and moving forward despite pain.

• loss
• grief
• death
• Claude

Friendship serves as a guiding force in Babes, demonstrating how close bonds can withstand life's trials. Eden and Dawn's relationship exemplifies the deep support friends provide during parenthood and personal growth, underscoring the necessity of maintaining connections through major life transitions.

• friendship
• bond
• support
• connection

Eden, played by Ilana Glazer, is a spirited yoga instructor who embodies optimism and determination throughout her journey into motherhood. She is supportive and caring, always there for her best friend Dawn, while also confronting her own aspirations and fears about becoming a mother.

• Eden
• Ilana Glazer
• main character
• yoga instructor

Dawn, played by Michelle Buteau, is a vibrant expectant mother whose journey captures the chaos and joy of impending parenthood. She grapples with the challenges of motherhood while maintaining her work commitments, showcasing the importance of community support and balance between personal and professional life.

• Dawn
• Michelle Buteau
• main character
• expectant mother

Marty, played by Hasan Minhaj, is Dawn's supportive husband who embodies loyalty and care as he prepares for the arrival of their child. He stands as a pillar of strength for Dawn during their transformative journey into parenthood, illustrating the dynamic between partners supporting each other through life's challenges.

• Marty
• Hasan Minhaj
• husband
• supportive partner

Bernie, played by Oliver Platt, is Eden's estranged father whose return complicates her emotional landscape. His interactions reveal the consequences of absence and the potential for reconnection, adding a poignant layer about familial relationships and his commitment to becoming a grandfather.

• Bernie
• Oliver Platt
• Eden father
• estranged father

Tommy is the young son of Dawn and Marty, navigating the complexities of childhood amid significant family changes. His character represents innocence and the unfiltered experiences children undergo during life transitions, with his fascination with darker themes hinting at deeper emotional layers.

• Tommy
• child
• son
• Dawn Marty

Claude, played by Stephan James, is a charming actor who brings romantic intrigue to Eden's life. His character experiences loss, which intertwines with Eden's journey and emphasizes the fragility of connections. Despite his fleeting presence, Claude has a profound impact on Eden's character development.

• Claude
• Stephan James
• romance
• actor

Babes is a comedy film that balances significant life challenges with regular comedic relief. Despite covering serious topics like unplanned pregnancy, grief, and postpartum depression, the film maintains an overall hopeful outlook and tone, using humor to navigate difficult emotional territory.

• comedy
• genre
• humor
• ton