The Surrogate

Like the cinematic embodiment of an elite hip-hop lyricist, indie drama The Surrogate flows like few other films.

Throughout writer/director Jeremy Hersh’s feature debut, scenes of Brooklyn-based web designer Jess (Jasmine Batchelor) — the titular figure for married friends Josh (Chris Perfetti) and Aaron (Sullivan Jones) — rolling with the ups and downs of her first trimester are edited with a poetic energy that hooks viewers early and keeps them engaged.

These vignettes handle privileged celebrations of her pregnancy and the numerous complications that stem from the prenatal revelation that the child has Down syndrome with an even-handed, judgement-free touch that allows the script’s thick moral conundrums to ring loud and clear.

Paired with strong performances and clean, straightforward filmmaking, Hersh’s intelligent style turns a dialogue-heavy, potentially rote film into an enthralling and moving experience.

Grade: B-plus. Not rated, but with adult themes and language. Available to rent via the Fine Arts Theatre

(Photo: Strand Releasing)