Netflix’s “Baby Farm” Tackles the Dark Reality of Baby Trafficking

Netflix’s “Baby Farm” dives into the grim world of baby trafficking, following young women who are lured into a supposed safe haven only to realize they’ve walked into a trap. Directed by Walter “Waltbanger” Taylaur and Kayode Kasum, and co-written by Mo Abudu, Heidi Uys, and Darrel Bristow-Bovey, the five-episode series is a tense drama about deception, desperation, and survival.

The story centers on Adanna (Onyinye Odokoro), a pregnant woman who, believing she is leaving her unborn twins in the care of a trusted charity, unknowingly hands them over to a criminal operation. Meanwhile, Cherise (Rita Dominic), a famous actress struggling with infertility, finds herself caught in the same web. Their paths cross in a way that exposes the deep rot beneath the surface.

Adanna’s journey starts with heartbreak; abandoned by her boyfriend and shunned by her family, she flees to Lagos in search of a fresh start. The city, however, is unkind. Alone and vulnerable, she stumbles upon Dr. Evan’s clinic, a place that presents itself as a refuge for pregnant women in need. But it doesn’t take long before she realizes that the clinic is not what it seems.

The tension builds gradually, peeling back layers of deceit as Adanna and other girls discover the truth about their supposed saviors. The show doesn’t just explore their suffering but also the power imbalance that keeps them trapped.

Onyinye Odokoro delivers a believable performance as Adanna, portraying both her innocence and her growing determination to escape. Genoveva Umeh stands out as Ebun, a character who is both a friend and, at times, an obstacle. Their friendship carries much of the emotional weight of the series.

Maggie Osuome’s character, Eniye, is a quiet yet striking presence. Pretending to be mute as a survival tactic, she plays the long game in planning an escape. But her fate takes a tragic turn, making one wonder if all her effort was for nothing.

Rita Dominic and Joseph Benjamin, playing a troubled couple desperate for a child, bring depth to their roles. While their storyline feels secondary, it highlights the demand that fuels illegal adoption networks. Their chemistry makes their struggles feel real, though the show doesn’t explore them as much as it could have.

“Baby Farm” does well in building suspense and exposing the horrors of baby trafficking, but some plot points feel underdeveloped. One questionable scene is when Adanna’s ex-boyfriend’s sister gives her an address out of nowhere. How did she know Adanna would come looking for him? Moments like this make the plot feel rushed in places.

Visually, the series does a good job of setting the mood. The dimly lit clinic, the uneasy atmosphere, and the contrast between wealth and poverty add to the storytelling. The cinematography helps to keep viewers engaged, even when the pacing is uneven.

Beyond the drama, “Baby Farm” touches on a real and disturbing issue, baby factories still exist in parts of Nigeria, preying on vulnerable young women. While the series doesn’t reinvent the wheel, it delivers a gripping watch that sheds light on a problem often ignored.

Despite some predictable moments, “Baby Farm” remains a strong, emotional story with good performances. It may not be flawless, but it’s the kind of show that leaves an impression long after the credits roll.

Release Date: March 21, 2025

Runtime: 182 minutes

Streaming Service: Netflix

Director: Walter “Walterbanger” Taylaur and Kayode Kasum

Cast: Rita Dominic, Joseph Benjamin, Genoveva Umeh, Langley Kirkwood, Jenny Stead and Onyinye Odokoro.

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