Movie Review: Obvious Child (2014)

I recently discovered an indie gem on Netflix featuring one of my favorite comedians, Jenny Slate. Obvious Child, which began as a short film in 2009, was released as a feature-length film at the Sundance Film Festival in 2014 where it was acquired by A24 studios. The film boasts stunning visuals and an all-female production team with Gillian Robespierre at its head. Widely well-received, Obvious Child has gathered various accolades, including two awards from the National Board of Review and two Independent Spirit Award nominations. Telling a truthful and hilarious story of a young woman named Donna's experiences with romance, life, and abortion; Obvious Child was written to destigmatize abortion, showcasing the support that Donna receives from her parents and friends and placing the importance of her decision on her rather than the man who got her pregnant. And, like any good rom-com, it has a happy ending...but I won't spoil that for you. Even if you aren't a twenty-something young woman dealing with a surprise pregnancy, it's easy to find relatable moments in this film - whether you've ever lost your job, failed at something you were passionate about, or have had a shitty breakup, Obvious Child will find a place in your heart.

Sources: 

“Obvious Child.” Wikipedia, Wikimedia Foundation, 30 Sept. 2019, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Obvious_Child.

Sanghani, Radhika. “Obvious Child Director: 'Please Stop Calling My Film an 'Abortion Comedy' - It's Really about Choice'.” The Telegraph, Telegraph Media Group, 19 Aug. 2014, https://www.telegraph.co.uk/women/womens-life/11042053/Interview-with-Obvious-Child-director-and-actress-on-abortion-comedy.html.