This 2025 Drama With A 97% Rotten Tomatoes Is Easily One Of The Best Movies Streaming On HBO Max

Eva Victor’s debut feature, Sorry, Baby, has come a long way since she became a darling at Sundance earlier this year. The film was critically acclaimed upon release, and currently holds a perfect rating of 97% on Rotten Tomatoes. This outpouring of love is completely earned – the film is a refreshingly sharp black comedy that oscillates between genuine hilarity and a sadder examination of trauma and its aftermath. You might expect Victor to lean toward these heavy feelings, but they honestly acknowledge them with the goal of moving on and eventually getting over them. But there are moments when this pain and discomfort persists, forcing Agnes (Victor) to question everything about her evolving identity.

Agnes’ story is incomplete without Lady (Naomi Ackie, also wonderful in Bong Joon-ho’s “Mickey 17”), as their friendship is the firm anchor that anchors us to the film’s grounded reality. Their shared past is a treasure trove of fond memories, and this reunion couldn’t come at a better time, bringing the laughter and camaraderie that endear us to these characters in no time. / Film’s BJ Colangelo spoke to Victor and Aki about the multi-layered themes in Sorry, Baby, and the director had the following to say about the importance of the relationship between Agnes and Lady:

“I always wrote it as a non-linear story, and I always wanted to start with friendship, and the joy of friendship to kind of set up because the film is about that kind of cathartic friendship. […] “We had to get to know them, because otherwise, if you look at the chronology, the movie starts with this bad thing that happened, whereas this movie is about people, and how they try to cope.”

With that in mind, let’s take a closer look at one of the best releases of the year and why it’s essential to watch.

Stories centered around trauma are not always treated with the tact and sensitivity they deserve. Even when these requirements are met, there is a tendency to sensationalize profound elements or reduce survivor identity to disturbingly narrow definitions. “Sorry, Baby” avoids these trappings, because it is not interested in dramatizing a horrific assault or framing it in a dramatic light. Victor focuses their attention on the fact that life constantly finds a way to unfold, even as some of our most painful feelings seep into our daily lives. Lyddie’s friendship acts as a soothing balm, and the joy that accompanies it is warm, gentle, and resilient.

The contrast between Agnes and Lady’s daily routine highlights the distinct flavors of their lives. While Lyddie is busy building a family, Agnes is more concerned with survival, clinging to the routine predictability of her circumstances. This is not necessarily a bad thing – healing is not linear, and ages should not constantly challenge themselves to grow or develop. The emotional intimacy that comes with a deep, satisfying friendship is enough. Victor and Aki weave a natural bond between their respective characters, bringing plenty of nuance to a film that’s all about feeling at home with someone who makes us feel safe.

“Sorry, Baby” is streaming on HBO Max right now, making it the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in Victor’s lovingly crafted world where Agnes and Lady reside. This is also one of the most memorable films distributed by A24 in recent memory, so give it a chance if you’re curious.