Derived from the ancient Greek word doúlē, doula translates to “female slave” or “woman’s servant”. In more modern times, they are a non-medical companion who supports a person through childbirth and other health-related experiences. But what exactly does a doula do? This new comedy explores how they advocate for body autonomy and debunk myths (a little pasteurised cheese never hurt anyone, right?!).

Doula follows Deb (Troian Bellisario) and Silvio (Arron Shiver), an unmarried couple expecting their first child. When their elderly doula unexpectedly dies, they hire – rather, Silvio hires ­– her son, Sascha (Will Greenberg), to be their live-in doula. Sascha’s unconventional methods help Deb adapt to her final stages of pregnancy and advocate for what she wants, much to Silvio’s disapproval.

The film is directed by Cheryl Nichols and written by actor Arron Shiver (Charlie Brockman in Ford v Ferrari), from a story by Shiver and Will Janowitz (Finn DeTrolio in The Sopranos). It is the first feature film to be produced by Chris Pine’s new production company, Barry Linen Motion.

Incidentally, Doula is incredibly timely. The recent overturning of US Supreme Court abortion ruling Roe vs Wade has inspired a new bout of passionate pro-choice protests and desperate pleas from women all around the world, not just the US, for the freedom to make informed decisions about their own bodies. By exploring the highs and lows of a modern-day pregnancy, this film highlights the lack of agency women have over their pregnancies under a stifling patriarchy.

“I’m a hostage in my own body. I’m a goddamn delivery vessel” – Deb

Pretty Little Liars star Troian Bellisario holds the somewhat-wonky screenplay together with her honest portrayal of a woman braving a complicated pregnancy. The explosive arguments and heartfelt confessions create an honest representation of a pregnant woman’s battle with the healthcare system, unwanted familial opinions and controlling male partners. Despite Deb’s vulnerability, she remains an unfleshed protagonist with a weak link to her basketball career amid predictable references to a challenging relationship with her mother.

Silvio is a loathsome character. First, he hires Sascha behind Deb’s back, and then criticises Sascha for engaging in “radical hippie shit” when he discovers the male doula is not going to be advocating for his wants. He is selfish and manipulative, which is sure to get the blood pumping in agitation.

Before we even see the title card, it is painfully obvious that there is not a single spark of romantic tension between the expecting couple. It seems as though Bellisario and Shiver met on the first day of filming. Whether a result of miscasting or failure to launch, their lack of chemistry reinforces the months-old couple’s inability to connect emotionally and sensually. This makes Sascha’s reassuring presence ever more necessary.

But even grounded Sascha comes with his own biases. He is cautious of the “scalpel-happy” Dr Gregory Zonkowski (Chris Pine) and, in his own subtle way, guides Deb towards the “right” decision. Greenberg’s deadpan comedy makes Sascha an onscreen delight, as he both humours and consoles the fearful mother-to-be. It is from him comes one of the most powerful lines in the film – “I don’t have to, I choose to. That is the greatest freedom” – and it’s obvious he’s talking about more than simply doing the dishes. 

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Nichols keeps the ball rolling with quick scenes that highlight sharp dialogue. She illuminates the bigger picture by placing viewers inside the womb, too. A warm light accompanied by alien-like music immerses us in peaceful isolation. Although overly artificial, here, Nichols allows the audience to mediate on what really matters in this unstable household.

Doula is a hearty mix of substance and silliness that is most enjoyable when not trying too hard to be funny. With a fresh blow to women’s rights earlier this month, there’s no better time to put on a film like Doula – one that challenges uninvited and overbearing male voices. Listen, really hear, and you might learn.

Doula is available now on digital