Rss

  • linkedin

Archives for : abortion

Movie Review: “Never Rarely Sometimes Always” is a Powerful and Raw Character Study

It’s a tough film to swallow, but it’s an unforgettable watch.

“Never Rarely Sometimes Always” follows Autumn (Sidney Flanigan), a teenage girl from Pennsylvania, who unexpectedly finds herself pregnant. We aren’t sure who knocked her up, but we are sure she does not want to go through with the pregnancy. Unable to tell her mother or her mother’s ass of a boyfriend, she confides in her best friend/ cousin, Skylar (Talia Ryder). From there, the two head to New York on what is supposed to be a mission to take care of Autumn’s situation; but ends up being a journey of discovery and a difficult life lesson.

There is a lot to admire with director/writer Eliza Hittman’s (Beach Rats) third film. For starters, the support from all the women in the movie. They are shown as comforting and caring characters. Autumn’s mom is a bit clueless; but she does love her daughter, and shows a tender side in the brief moments we see her. The female workers at both the clinics Autumn visits, are understanding, non-judgmental, and genuinely try to help the lost young lady. But it’s the bond between Autumn and Skylar that shows a true example of a selfless and giving friendship. Both actresses do a wonderful job in the film, but it’s Flanigan who shines in her debut performance by playing her character with such grace and honesty.

However, the men in this movie are not painted in the same light. They are shown as dismissive, threatening, or perverted. When the girls come across Jasper (Theodore Pellerin) on their bus ride to the city, he appears eager but harmless. Clearly interested in Skylar, she reluctantly gives him her cell number which ends up being a resourceful tool. But as you’d imagine, he’s not as innocent as he seems.

Hittman’s raw and painfully realistic dialogue is what’s so captivating. All of Autumns conversations are incredibly natural. And the emotions hit hard when she’s at her final destination in Brooklyn answering a questionnaire given by the counselor there. She must answer a series of questions relating to her sexual history with the responses of either “never, rarely, sometimes, or always.” Hittman’s screenplay is harrowing and thought-provoking.

There are some burning questions that are left up to interpretation; and the film does drag a bit in the second act, but those are my only qualms.

“Never Rarely Sometimes Always” is not an easy watch, especially during our current ordeal; but it is well worth your time.

Rating: 3.5/5

“Never Rarely Sometimes Always” is available to rent On Demand on April 3 through any of these platforms…Amazon, Apple, Comcast, DirecTV, Vudu, Google/YouTube, Charter, Verizon, Microsoft, Dish, Fandango, Sony, Cox, Altice, Vubiquity, AMC On Demand, Redbox 

Share

Movie Review: “Obvious Child” is One of the Best Films of the Year!

Jenny Slate gives a breakthrough performance in an authentic romantic comedy that touches on the daring topic of abortion.

Brilliantly written/directed by Gillian Robespierre and based on her feature short from 2009, Obvious Child tells the story of, Donna (Slate), a twenty-something stand-up comic who seems to be perfectly content with her life.  But after her boyfriend dumps her to be with one of her “good” friends, she learns that when it rains, it pours.  Within a week she has not only lost the man in her life, but also her job. So like any woman who is going through an emotional crisis, she decides to indulge in a careless night of drinking.  That night she meets Max (Jake Lacy), a straight-laced honest to God good guy.  They engage in a one-night stand that was never meant to be anything more.  However, three weeks later Donna discovers she is pregnant and plans to get an abortion.  But she is conflicted when Max reappears in her life and wants nothing more than to take her out on a “proper date.”

Though Obvious Child deals with a sensitive subject that most people have strong opinions on, it is important to understand that there is so much more to this story.  It’s about finally facing the reality of being independent for the first time. Donna must make tough decisions that she would otherwise avoid.  Like the film quote says “creative energy can sometimes come at the lowest point your life.”  Regardless of the circumstances, audiences can relate to this film when remembering a dark time that forced you to start over.

Slate is best known for  SNL, Parks and Rec, and many more comedic roles.  Once audiences watch this film, Jenny Slate will be remembered for this incredible, uplifting performance that will make you laugh and ache.  She shares a refreshing on-screen chemistry with Jake Lacy, as the two portray a awkwardly genuine relationship.

Donna doesn’t go through her troubles alone.  She is supported by loving friends and family that chime in with advice and counsel.  She has her English professor mother (Polly Draper), her puppeteer father (Richard Kind), and her best friend/roommate (Gaby Hoffman).

This story is not meant to offend anyone and it doesn’t try to change your beliefs on the topic at hand.  The film just shows the point of view of a woman who solely handles the decisions of a serious situation in a light manner.  I highly recommend this movie, as it is my favorite of the year so far.  Obvious Child is smart, witty, hilarious, and unlike anything you’ve seen before.

Obvious Child hits select theaters June 20.

Rating: 5/5

Originally posted on RedCarpetCrash.com

Share