V3I1P64

Reimagining Women’s Autonomy and Reproductive Rights: A Sociocultural Analysis through the Lens of the Bollywood Movie “Good Newwz”

Dr. Sana Hashmi¹*

Abstract

“Good Newwz”, the debut work by Raj Mehta, is about the struggle for conceiving a baby from the last nine years in traditional culture, despite the exoteric title. This moving film reflects upon the artificial reproductive technology through a feminist point of view, resolving the difficulties and unintended repercussions that couples face. The story centres on two sets of individuals who accidentally get embroiled in a mix up at a reproductive clinic. This leads to a sequence of unexpected occurrences that question society’s conventions and beliefs, especially when viewed through a feminist lens. The plot of this movie works on several levels; in addition to discussing the new technologies that give millions of people in our society a chance to become parents, it also incorporates themes of chaos caused by the wrong implementation of these artificial reproductive technologies. It is a film that has the power to touch viewers’ hearts and stick to them long after they leave the theatre, thanks to its multilayered narrative, ensemble cast, imaginative writing, intelligent humour, and well-nuanced characters that carry a very bold and strong message without compromising on entertainment. This review reflects upon some heartbreaking scenes that encourage viewers to think about a pain that a woman suffers from during her whole pregnancy journey. It also highlights the notion that a partner’s care and support is quit vital to make the journey successful for a pregnant woman.

Keywords:

Artificial Reproductive Technology, Autonomy, Motherhood, Parents, Pregnancy, and Societal Norms