Seahorse: The Dad Who Gave Birth

Seahorse: The Dad Who Gave Birth, directed by Jeanie Finlay in 2019, is a ground-breaking and extraordinary documentary that tells the unique story of Freddy McConnell, a transgender man who undertakes an exceptional journey of pregnancy and childbirth. This film offers an insightful and empathetic portrait of an unconventional path to fatherhood and seeks to challenge and transform our understanding of gender, parenthood, and interracial kinship.

The film opens with an intimate glimpse into Freddy McConnell's life in the quaint seaside town of Deal, Kent in the U.K., working as a journalist for The Guardian. Freddy, originally born female, transitioned to male in his twenties. All throughout his transition, however, he has maintained the dream and desire of experiencing the unparalleled journey of pregnancy and childbirth. This screening is not limited to the day-to-day practicalities of navigating the world as an expectant trans-man but also delves deeply into the physical, emotional, and societal battles that Freddy faces – from chest binding and hormonal treatments to facing prejudice and societal glaring.

Throughout the film, the director takes us on a chronological expedition, from the initial decisions and consultations with doctors, through the insecurities of the pregnancy process, to the ultimate, transforming experience of childbirth. Paced patiently, the movie deploys a gentle and respectful lens which allows the viewers to fully understand the extent of the harrowing journey that Freddy embarks on whilst also opening up a conversation about the fundamentals of what it means to be a parent and the essence of family.

What stands out in this film is its raw honesty, as it refuses to shy away from the numerous complexities of Freddy’s journey. Director Jeanie Finlay balances raw naturalism with a degree of poeticism, giving the film a humanistic touch. Each scene is carefully crafted to present Freddy and his journey in a dignified and effective manner. Furthermore, the intimate home footage alongside interviews with his mother and moments with his supportive partner keep the narrative grounded, relatable, and incredibly moving.

The universal essence of parenthood is beautifully highlighted in this documentary. Regardless of one's orientation or societal role, the film emphasises that the joys, fears, expectations, and trials associated with parenthood and birth are universal experiences that transcend the boundaries of gender and social norms. Despite the strong societal norms that often stigmatise and confine individuals to certain roles and expectations, Seahorse: The Dad Who Gave Birth challenges these conventions and emboldens viewers to foster a more inclusive understanding of parenthood, recognises the struggles of gender transitioning, and reflects upon the changing societal definitions of family and parenthood.

The movie is also visually delightful, with gorgeous landscapes and beautifully shot scenes which heighten the intimacy of the portrayed reality. The changing seasons mirror the various stages of Freddy's pregnancy, adding a sense of exquisite symbolism to an already heartfelt narrative. The authentic portrayal of mundane life, counterposed by the extraordinary circumstances, add to the film's universal appeal.

Freddy’s courage and resilience, paired with his desire for openness about his journey, fill Seahorse: The Dad Who Gave Birth with an enriching and powerful message about love, bravery, and above all, parenthood. His journey is an inspiring testament to the lengths a person will go to build the life they've always dreamed of, even when it means challenging societal norms and risking personal comfort.

Seahorse: The Dad Who Gave Birth has been critically acclaimed for its depth, sensitivity, and originality, and has made a significant contribution to the cinema of real life. It’s an intimate and heartening narrative that shines a bright light on topics that are often left in the shadows of mainstream cinema. Viewers may find themselves immersed in the emotional journey of Freddy, questioning societal norms, and extending their definition and understanding of what family and parenthood truly mean. It’s a story about the power of love, life and acceptance where love in all forms surpasses societal expectations and norms. This movie underlines an integral fact about life, that the journey might be challenging and filled with obstacles, but love, acceptance, and the desire to build a family can break barriers and cross boundaries of conventional societal norms.