Amy Schumer is back on the streaming scene with her latest film, Kinda Pregnant, which debuted on Netflix on February 5, 2025. This romantic comedy dives headfirst—much like Schumer often does—into the chaotic world of friendship, jealousy, and mistaken identities, all framed within the theme of motherhood.
Co-written by Schumer and Julie Paiva, Kinda Pregnant features the comedian portraying Lainy, a high school teacher who finds herself grappling with feelings of envy as her best friend, Kate (played by Jillian Bell), unexpectedly becomes pregnant. Struggling with her own long-held desire to be a mother, Lainy concocts an absurd plan to alleviate her jealousy: she dons a fake pregnancy belly and pretends to be expecting herself.
The film sets the stage for its brand of humor early on, with moments of absurdity punctuated by relatable dialogue. Right off the bat, it opens with Lainy experiencing heartbreak when her boyfriend, Dave (Marlon Wayans Jr.), proposes the idea of having a threesome instead of commitment. This twist nudges Lainy down her comedic path which involves increasingly outlandish attempts to maintain her deception as she enters prenatal yoga classes and makes unlikely new friends.
Director Tyler Spindel, known for his work intertwined with the comedic stylings found at Happy Madison Productions, keeps the pacing lively as he brings this ensemble cast together. Though the main focus is on Schumer's character, supporting roles are filled with talent like Brianne Howey, who plays Lainy’s new friend Megan, and Will Forte, who fills the shoes of the oblivious Zamboni driver dating Lainy. The chemistry between Schumer and Forte is particularly noteworthy, presenting interactions ripe with easy banter reminiscent of classic screwball comedy.
Reviewers, though, seem divided on the effectiveness of the film’s humor. On one hand, Kinda Pregnant delivers Schumer’s signature edgy and self-deprecatory style of comedy, but on the other, it has been criticized for leaning too heavily on familiar tropes and predictable punchlines. "The comedy is so predictable you can almost hear the punchlines forming before the characters say them," one review noted, reflecting on the film's lack of fresh insights or laughs.
The film's plot, described as "thinner than a bacon strip," offers little new territory for viewers accustomed to comedy films exploring motherhood. Critics have pointed out similar films, like Knocked Up and What to Expect When You’re Expecting, and noted Kinda Pregnant doesn't add anything substantial to those conversations. The emotional undertones concerning friendship and pregnancy are often overshadowed by the comedic chaos, rendering the film more of a light-hearted romp than any deep exploration of its themes.
Nevertheless, Kinda Pregnant manages to settle comfortably as a film meant for fun rather than profundity. A standout moment involves Schumer cleverly incorporating contemporary pop culture—she humorously relays the tale of the Kardashian family and their wealth stemming from the infamous O.J. Simpson trial, all to make viewers chuckle. These relatable nuggets maintain the film’s appeal, even if the storytelling itself tends to falter.
Critics have remarked on the film’s pacing and the array of characters filling the screen. While comedic moments are peppered throughout, some critics feel the supporting characters could have been highlighted more effectively. Jillian Bell’s Kate, meant to be the embodiment of impending motherhood, ends up being underutilized, and audience sentiments echo this frustration. Forte’s character, typically known for stealing scenes, is also sidelined, leading some to wonder about the missed opportunities for greater humor and engagement.
Among its more significant critiques, filmmakers and audiences alike note the film's lack of depth. One reviewer highlighted the emotional aspects of pregnancy and how friendships evolve through life’s phases, lamenting how the film seemingly treats these dimensions lightly and opts for easier gags instead. Reflecting on this, Schumer shared her hopes for how involved viewers might take the film to heart: “I hope they have a good time and feel seen,” she said, hoping to align the film more with genuine stories of motherhood and women’s experiences.
Despite the mixed reviews, this film captures the chaotic essence of life and friendship, complete with humor and absurd situations—a trademark for Schumer. While Kinda Pregnant may not push boundaries or reinvent the comedy genre, it offers enough levity to entertain viewers seeking lighthearted streaming options during their downtime. With its comedic misadventures and relatable characters, Kinda Pregnant could serve as the perfect fill-in for those wanting laughter alongside their coffee breaks.
So if you’re curious about how Lainy finesses her way through this comedic whirlwind of lies and friendship, pop some popcorn and settle in. Kinda Pregnant may not redefine comedy, but where it lacks depth, it makes up with heart and familiar chuckles, securing its place as classic Netflix binge material.