Is Postpartum Depression Funny? Lauren Lapkus and Nora Fiffer Think It Can Be
Oct 28, 2024
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Lauren Lapkus, an actor and comedian known for her roles in "Orange is the New Black" and "Crashing," joins writer-director Nora Fiffer, whose film "Another Happy Day" explores postpartum depression. They share hilarious and poignant anecdotes about the chaos of early motherhood and the often-ignored struggles of new moms. The discussion highlights the need for more postpartum stories in Hollywood, the importance of humor amidst the challenges, and how supportive environments can enhance productivity in creative fields.
The podcast emphasizes the urgent need for authentic postpartum representations in media, highlighting the societal neglect of these experiences.
Humor serves as a vital coping mechanism in addressing motherhood's challenges, fostering connection through shared laughter among new parents.
The filmmakers advocate for equitable treatment of caregivers in the industry, promoting eight-hour workdays with on-set childcare for better creative environments.
Deep dives
The Unique Lens of Postpartum Experience
The discussion highlights the lack of representation of postpartum experiences in media, emphasizing the need for authentic portrayals of motherhood. The film 'Another Happy Day' is described as a postpartum depression comedy that touches on the challenges and humor associated with the postpartum period. It depicts various aspects of motherhood, from strained relationships to identity shifts related to work and creativity, effectively resonating with the experiences of new parents. The filmmakers aim to provide the representation they wished they had during their own transitions into motherhood.
The Healing Power of Laughter
The filmmakers discuss how laughter can serve as a coping mechanism in addressing the challenges of motherhood. By infusing humor into their film, they create a space for conversation around difficult subjects, allowing viewers to see their struggles reflected back at them in a comedic light. The importance of sharing these experiences is underscored, as it fosters connection and understanding among parents who often feel isolated in their journeys. This perspective encourages viewers to engage with the content and find solace in the collective experience of motherhood.
Capturing the Isolation of New Parenthood
The film's deliberate choice to maintain a claustrophobic atmosphere reflects the isolating nature of new motherhood. By utilizing a small cast and limited settings, the filmmakers effectively portray the character's disconnection from the outside world, making the viewer feel the tension and confinement of her experience. This representation resonates deeply with audiences, as many new parents can relate to the feeling of being trapped within the confines of their home and routine. Ultimately, the narrative captures a shared truth about the postpartum experience that is rarely explored in mainstream media.
The Movement of Time in Motherhood
The filmmakers discuss the unique perception of time that often accompanies the postpartum period, likening it to an accordion of experience. The portrayal of time as both stretching and contracting provides a visceral depiction of how parents experience long days and fleeting moments simultaneously. This approach invites viewers to engage with the film on a deeper emotional level, reflecting their own feelings of time's elasticity during parenthood. The discussion emphasizes that by exploring these themes through film, a greater understanding of the challenges faced by new parents can be fostered.
Fostering Respect and Care on Set
An important highlight from the podcast is the filmmakers' commitment to creating a respectful and supportive work environment, especially for parents. Their decision to implement eight-hour workdays with on-set childcare reflects a broader conversation about the need for equitable treatment of caregivers in creative spaces. By prioritizing the well-being of all cast and crew members, the film sets a precedent for future productions, encouraging others in the industry to adopt similar practices. This forward-thinking approach not only boosts morale but also values the contributions of parents as creative professionals.
Miranda and Sarah are joined by actor and comedian Lauren Lapkus and actor and filmmaker Nora Fiffer to talk about their tender, hilarious new film, Another Happy Day. We discuss the isolation and absurdity of early motherhood, taking care of care-takers at work, and why Hollywood should be just as saturated with postpartum movies as it is with World War II movies.
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