Rob Munday
Although motherhood should be a choice and not an expectation, imagine living in a society where a governing body decides who can have children, using a scheme involving a “robot” baby. This is the world director Margo Roe introduces in her short film Monitor. Inviting us into the home of hopeful parents, Jenna and Fi, as they look after this trial child, we join the “monitoring” process as their every move is observed by officials who will determine their future as parents.
Written by Ben Norris, Monitor aims to provoke thought about “who has the right to parenthood, and what kind of family units (both economic and sexual) we prioritise as a society”. Set in a world not far removed from our own, the film uses a subtle sci-fi twist to tell a story that feels both eerily plausible and fantastical at the same time.
Emily Stott as Jenna, one-half of a couple wanting to become parents.
When we first meet the couple central to the narrative of Monitor, they’re cozily nestled together on the sofa, as close as can be, admiring the new addition to their family. However, as the story progresses, it becomes clear that their bond isn’t as solid as it first appears, with Roe and her team expertly framing the couple (with the baby often in between) to highlight their increasing emotional distance.
As their relationship unravels, along with their hopes of parenthood, the short skilfully evokes empathy for the characters, even as they make questionable decisions. Much of this credit goes to the strong performances, particularly Emily Stott as Jenna, though it’s clear that fostering compassion for the characters was a priority throughout the production.
“The film doesn’t land its punches unless you’re really seeing it through Jenna’s eyes” – producer Isabella de Rosario
This empathy, paired with the film’s impressive authenticity, gives Monitor a powerful emotional impact. Director Roe ensures the film feels as if it’s set just “five minutes in the future,” making the scenario eerily plausible. You wouldn’t be shocked to hear about a government rolling out a similar scheme in real life.
Inspired by a UK undercover policing scandal and reflections on how society controls who can have children – through media portrayals and policy decisions – the film ignites a thought-provoking discussion on the regulation of parenthood and family structures. Both unsettling and relatable, Monitor offers a troubling reflection of modern society while serving as an impressive calling card for all the filmmakers involved.