Baby Boom

J.C. Wiatt is a driven New York City executive who lives for her career and has no plans for children beyond a casual glance at life in the fast lane. Her relationship with Steven, an equally successful broker, is built on the belief that parenthood isn’t in their cards. Then a distant relative dies and leaves J.C. guardianship of a baby girl named Elizabeth. The reality of diapers and late nights collides with boardroom power lunches, and Steven walks away, unable to adjust to the new arrangement. J.C. must learn to balance meetings with feedings, reframe expectations, and fight to stay on the corporate fast track without losing sight of what the new role demands.

Released in 1987, the film is directed by Charles Shyer with a screenplay by Nancy Meyers. It is an original story not adapted from another work, blending drama, romance, and light comedy.

The movie sits at the crossroads of late 80s pop culture, shaping how audiences talk about women balancing careers and family. Diane Keaton's warm, practical performance helped popularize the "having it all" conversation, and the film remains a reference point for work life comedies of the era.

Critics welcomed its breezy tone, accessible humor, and the chemistry between Keaton and the supporting cast, while noting familiar romcom rhythms. The film explores ambition, gender expectations, and the cost of trying to redefine success on one's own terms.