Shiva Baby

Shiva Baby is a 2020 coming-of-age comedy-drama film, directed by Emma Seligman, that follows the story of Danielle, a college student who is grappling with her sexual identity while also trying to navigate the complexities of her Jewish family and community. Rachel Sennott plays the lead role of Danielle, while Danny Deferrari plays her ex-boyfriend, and Fred Melamed plays her father.

The movie opens with Danielle attending a shiva, a Jewish mourning ritual, with her parents. It’s an awkward affair, with Danielle being forced to confront her ex-boyfriend Max, who’s also in attendance. However, things take a turn for the worse when Danielle discovers that the person hosting the shiva is her sugar daddy, a wealthy older man who’s been funding her college education in exchange for occasional sexual favors.

As the guests arrive, Danielle becomes increasingly anxious and paranoid, fearing that she’ll be exposed for her relationship with the sugar daddy. Her anxiety is compounded by the fact that her family keeps introducing her to eligible bachelors, and she’s forced to pretend that she’s interested in them.

Things only get worse as the day progresses. Danielle’s mother keeps pressuring her about her future plans and her weight, while her father constantly compares her to his successful friends’ children. Meanwhile, the sugar daddy keeps texting her, and Max keeps trying to engage her in conversation.

As tensions continue to mount, Danielle’s lies start to unravel, and she finds herself facing the consequences of her actions. She’s forced to confront her own identity, her own desires, and her own anxieties, while also dealing with the disapproval of her family and community.

Despite its heavy themes, Shiva Baby is a very funny movie, with lots of sharp, witty dialogue and some excellent visual comedy. The film is expertly crafted, with creative, energetic camera work that perfectly captures the chaotic, claustrophobic atmosphere of the shiva, and the complex relationships between the characters.

The performances are also excellent, with Rachel Sennott delivering a stand-out turn as Danielle. Sennott is able to convey the character’s anxiety, vulnerability, and strength in equal measure, making her a relatable and sympathetic protagonist. Danny Deferrari is also excellent as Max, bringing a sense of humor and charm to the role that make him a great foil for Danielle.

Overall, Shiva Baby is a smart, funny, and poignant film that explores themes of identity, shame, and community in a fresh and engaging way. It’s a must-see for anyone who’s ever felt out of place or struggled to find their place in the world.