Real-life best friends Ilana Glazer and Michelle Buteau star in the comedy film Babes, which tells the story of two best friends dealing with pregnancy and parenthood. Glazer plays Eden, a single woman who becomes pregnant from a one-night stand, while Buteau portrays Dawn, a married mother of two who helps Eden navigate the challenges of being a new parent. Both Glazer and Buteau were drawn to the project because of the close friendship between their characters, which reflects their own real-life bond.
The film premiered at South by Southwest earlier this year, receiving an overwhelmingly positive response from audiences. Glazer and Buteau were surprised by the reaction, with Buteau describing it as “winsanity” – a mix of winning and insanity. Babes is praised for its frank and funny portrayal of pregnancy and parenthood, with audiences appreciating the honesty and relatability of the story. As comedians, Glazer and Buteau enjoy being able to share their experiences and make people feel seen and heard through their work.
The friendship between Glazer and Buteau has evolved since becoming parents in real life, with aspects of their own experiences reflected in the film. Buteau recalls feeling isolated as a new parent and appreciates the sense of community that comes from having friends who are also parents. The film draws inspiration from classic friendship movies like Bridesmaids and Superbad, as well as iconic romantic comedies like Say Anything and Jerry Maguire. Director Pamela Adlon, who starred in Say Anything, brings her own perspective to the film, adding layers of depth to the characters and their relationships.
In addition to her work on Babes, Buteau achieved another milestone in 2024 by becoming the first woman to tape a comedy special at Radio City Music Hall in New York. Buteau sees this as an opportunity to challenge herself and pave the way for other performers who have traditionally been sidelined in the industry. She hopes to inspire a new generation of comedians who may not have had access to the same opportunities she has had. Despite the nerves and pressure that come with such a significant moment in her career, Buteau is determined to deliver a memorable performance that will resonate with audiences.
Glazer and Buteau’s collaboration on Babes highlights the importance of friendship, parenthood, and personal growth in a comedic and heartfelt way. Their on-screen chemistry and real-life connection bring authenticity to their characters and resonate with audiences. With Babes, Glazer and Buteau have created a film that celebrates the highs and lows of parenthood, while also showcasing the enduring power of female friendship and camaraderie in the face of life’s challenges.
