Yes, Call the Midwife unequivocally uses real babies in its filming, although not exclusively. This decision, while adding undeniable authenticity to the heartwarming drama, necessitates a strict adherence to ethical guidelines and a commitment to the babies’ wellbeing, all meticulously overseen by the show’s producers and medical advisors.
A Deep Dive into Infant Actors on Call the Midwife
Call the Midwife, renowned for its realistic portrayal of midwifery and family life in post-war London, wouldn’t achieve its poignant emotional resonance without the genuine presence of newborns. The show goes to great lengths to ensure the babies are safe, comfortable, and only ever filmed for short periods. But how does it all work?
The Ethical Considerations and Practicalities
The use of real babies presents a unique set of challenges. Firstly, strict licensing laws govern the employment of infants in the entertainment industry. Every baby appearing on screen requires a license obtained from the local council, ensuring adequate rest periods, suitable temperatures, and overall wellbeing. Secondly, the production team works closely with the babies’ parents, who are present on set at all times. The parents have the final say and can halt filming at any point if they feel their child is distressed.
The Recruitment and Selection Process
Interestingly, Call the Midwife doesn’t cast “professional baby actors.” Instead, the production team relies on local neonatal units and hospitals to connect them with parents of newborns. Parents who are interested submit photographs and basic information about their babies. The babies are then selected based on their age (typically a few days to a few weeks old), size, and temperament. The ideal baby is one that is relatively calm and content to be held. Often, identical twins or triplets are used to rotate babies throughout a scene, minimizing the time each individual infant spends on set.
FAQs: Your Questions Answered About Babies on Call the Midwife
Here are some frequently asked questions to further illuminate the process:
FAQ 1: How Old Are the Babies When They Are Filmed?
Babies are typically between a few days and a few weeks old. This age range provides the most realistic depiction of newborn babies. It also allows the show to capture the unique characteristics of a newborn, such as their tiny features and fragile movements.
FAQ 2: How Long Do the Babies Spend on Set Each Day?
Each baby’s time on set is strictly limited to a maximum of two hours per day, with frequent breaks for feeding, changing, and cuddles with their parents. The production team is acutely aware of the babies’ needs and prioritizes their comfort and wellbeing.
FAQ 3: Who Looks After the Babies on Set?
Parents are always present and primarily responsible for their baby’s care. However, a qualified and experienced nurse or midwife is also on set to provide additional support and guidance. This ensures the babies are in safe and capable hands at all times.
FAQ 4: Are the Babies Paid for Their Appearances?
Yes, the babies are paid for their time on set. The fees are typically paid directly to the parents and held in trust for the child’s future. This ensures the money is used for the baby’s benefit.
FAQ 5: How Do They Ensure the Babies Don’t Cry During Filming?
The production team takes several precautions to minimize the chances of babies crying. This includes ensuring the set is a comfortable temperature, providing soft blankets and clothing, and allowing the babies to be fed and changed whenever needed. If a baby does cry, filming is immediately stopped until the baby is calm and content.
FAQ 6: What Happens if a Baby Doesn’t Cooperate?
If a baby is consistently fussy or uncomfortable, they are not forced to participate. The production team will either try a different baby or adjust the scene to accommodate the situation. The baby’s wellbeing always takes precedence.
FAQ 7: Are Fake Babies Ever Used?
Yes, realistic-looking prosthetic babies (also known as dummies) are sometimes used, particularly for scenes involving delicate procedures or when a real baby is unavailable or unsuitable. These dummies are incredibly lifelike and often difficult to distinguish from real babies on screen.
FAQ 8: How Do They Handle Sensitive Scenes Like Births?
Birth scenes are carefully choreographed and rehearsed using either dummies or very carefully positioned real babies. The focus is always on creating a realistic depiction of childbirth without putting any real babies at risk. Experienced medical advisors are present to ensure accuracy and safety.
FAQ 9: Are the Actresses Who Play Midwives Trained in Handling Babies?
Yes, the actresses who play midwives receive specialized training in handling newborn babies. They learn how to hold, comfort, and care for infants safely and confidently. This training contributes to the show’s realistic portrayal of midwifery.
FAQ 10: How Does the Show Address Potential Concerns from Viewers About the Babies’ Wellbeing?
The production team is proactive in addressing potential concerns from viewers by transparency about their protocols and regularly communicating their commitment to the babies’ wellbeing through interviews and behind-the-scenes footage.
FAQ 11: What Are the Benefits of Using Real Babies in the Show?
Using real babies adds a layer of authenticity and emotional depth to the show that would be impossible to achieve with artificial babies. The genuine reactions and expressions of the babies resonate with viewers and contribute to the show’s powerful storytelling.
FAQ 12: How Can Parents Get Their Baby Involved in Call the Midwife?
Parents interested in having their baby appear on Call the Midwife should contact local neonatal units or hospitals that have a relationship with the production company. They can inquire about the casting process and submit photographs and information about their baby. However, it’s crucial to understand the commitment and prioritize the baby’s wellbeing above all else.
The Art of Balancing Authenticity and Child Welfare
Call the Midwife serves as a prime example of how a television show can successfully balance the desire for authenticity with the paramount importance of child welfare. The show’s meticulous planning, strict adherence to ethical guidelines, and unwavering commitment to the babies’ comfort ensure that these tiny stars are treated with the utmost care and respect. The result is a heartwarming and realistic drama that resonates with audiences worldwide, thanks in no small part to the genuine presence of the real babies gracing our screens. The dedicated work behind the scenes showcases a commitment to safety and responsible filmmaking, allowing viewers to enjoy the authenticity without compromising the wellbeing of these youngest actors.