Austria 2026
Opening July 9, 2026

Directed by: Nicole Schergs
Writing credits: Natalie Schwager
Principal actors: Documentary 

Having a baby is something that has been happening since the beginning of time and should be a simple thing to do; what could possibly go wrong? Austrian director Nicole Scherg’s documentary takes us on a very special journey through the eyes of five midwives living in five different countries: Genet Gebru, Ethiopia; Aïcha El Fathi, Morocco; Kanchan Mala Shrestha, Nepal; Gunda Gutscher, Austria; and Sheila Santos, Brazil.

Every birth is different, and when one looks at the current economic situation, many mothers have less of a risk of having a baby than they did in the past. This reality is often thanks to many midwives who work around the clock to ensure the safety and health of the mother and child. Wise Women shows us not only the challenges midwives face, but also why these women chose their occupation and why they are so passionate about doing it even though there are sometimes personal costs. It is a beautiful film which opens your eyes to the potential difficulties that can occur and how important it is to have these women giving their all to see these families grow. We the audience are always so relieved to hear that baby crying. (Shelly S.)