"serves as a powerful reminder that hope endures as long as there are those willing to fight for what is right"

As part of the London Film Festival’s headline Gala, Joy tells the compelling story behind the first successful IVF pregnancy, a groundbreaking achievement led by Robert Edwards, Jean Purdy, and Patrick Steptoe. 

The film also serves as a tribute to Edwards’ long fight to ensure Purdy’s vital role in this scientific triumph is properly recognised. Being the last surviving member of the research team, Edwards alone was awarded the Nobel Prize in Medicine in 2010, while Steptoe and especially Purdy’s contributions went unacknowledged for over 40 years. 

It wasn’t until 2018 that a plaque was finally erected at Bourn Hall to honour all three pioneers. Joy centres on Purdy’s pivotal role, highlighting her perseverance during the numerous failed attempts to achieve a successful IVF pregnancy.

Though categorised as historical fiction, Joy does more than celebrate the achievements of these three trailblazing doctors; it weaves in layers of relevance to modern political and social debates that still resonate today. Through its portrayal of the challenges and scrutiny faced by Edwards, Purdy, and Steptoe, director Ben Taylor casts a critical eye on the ongoing discourse around reproductive rights, particularly in a society where a woman’s worth—both then and now—is often tied to her ability to bear children.

Uniquely, the film also addresses the topic of endometriosis, marking the first time this condition has been explored in a major motion picture. While there is no historical evidence that Purdy herself suffered from the disease, Joy introduces it into her character’s narrative, diagnosing Jean with advanced endometriosis, which renders her unable to have children. 

This plot line is handled with care, emphasising how research related to women’s reproductive health is often undervalued or underfunded, despite its profound impact.

James Norton, Thomasin McKenzie, and Bill Nighy deliver powerful performances, effortlessly capturing the deep respect and friendship between these scientific pioneers. 

The film also highlights the moral and religious opposition they faced in the wake of their discovery, depicting the relentless backlash from both the scientific and religious communities that sought to dismiss their groundbreaking work. Yet, amidst this resistance, Joy underscores the compassion and respect Edwards, Purdy, and Steptoe showed towards the families involved in their studies. 

Throughout the film, their commitment to providing everyone with the same fair opportunity to choose parenthood shines through, countering the prevailing belief that such decisions should be left solely to nature.

At a time when the female body is once again under intense scrutiny, Joy serves as a powerful reminder that hope endures as long as there are those willing to fight for what is right.