Almost Pregnant

The 1992 movie Almost Pregnant is a blend of comedy and drama that brings to light the issue of infertility and the desperation of a couple that yearns to have a baby. Starring Tanya Roberts, Jeff Conaway, John Calvin, and Joan Severance, this cinematic work captures the trials, tribulations and hilarity that one couple goes through in the quest to have a child.

The movie cast, led by Jeff Conaway renowned for his roles in Grease and Taxi, and Tanya Roberts from Charlie’s Angels and A View to a Kill, elevates the film with their performances. They deliver an interesting mix of humor, pathos, and absurdity that keeps the audience engaged. Conaway plays the role of Charlie Alderson, while Roberts role is that of Linda Alderson, a fun-loving couple from a small town.

The story of Almost Pregnant starts when Charlie and Linda Alderson realize their lives are not complete without a baby. Despite being happily married, their unsuccessful attempts to get pregnant start to loom over their relationship. The couple's life is comparable to a roller coaster ride, filled with twists and turns that consist of self-discovery, self-acceptance, humor, and the determination to achieve their goal. Their struggles to conceive naturally lead them to consider other options such as fertility clinics and adoption. However, traditional methods seem to fail, pushing them to more outlandish means.

At times heart-wrenching, other times outright hilarious, the film is underpinned by a persistent and credible tension. The narrative of the movie gives equal importance to both Charlie and Linda. The multiple dimensions of the characters are presented realistically so that audiences can identify with their struggles.

Character actor John Calvin and the arresting Joan Severance essay supporting roles adding more dimension and authenticity to the plot. They interpret their characters with deftness, contributing significantly to the sometimes comic, sometimes serious undertones of the movie. John Calvin plays as a high-profile celebrity who comes along as a potential sperm donor exhibiting a suave and charismatic presence. On the other hand, Joan Severance makes her mark as a seductive woman with her own agenda, adding a few twists to the tale.

Director Michael DeLuise utilizes the major plot elements, i.e., insemination attempts, marital misunderstandings, and a certain sperm bank mishap, to create a tapestry of humor and human emotions. The unconventional storyline focuses on a critical issue couples face in a different light. Plenty of comedic situations are present to balance the solemnness of the movie’s main plot - a testament to DeLuise’s adeptness at genre blending.

While the movie is a comedy, it does not shy away from depicting the complexities and challenges faced by a couple struggling with infertility. This portrayal presents the topic in a simple and relatable way that allows the audience to understand the nuanced complexities of such an issue. The screenplay by Howard Meyers and Jordan Rush helps in building up these emotional depths but balances it well with comedy.

The musical score by Marc Ellis and the cinematography by John Huneck contributes effectively to the overall vibe of the movie. The unique demarcations between the dramatic and comedic elements seen throughout the film are often accentuated by the soundtrack and visual presentation, which perfectly complements the ambiance of the different scenes.

Almost Pregnant brings forth a comedic yet heartfelt tale that viewers will find both entertaining and thought-provoking. The movie offers a lighthearted look at a serious situation that many couples face in real life. It explores the human emotions, struggles, and the lengths people go to while starting a family. With its engaging direction and believable performances, the movie is worth a watch.