The Abortion Movie Like No Other

Unpregnant is the abortion movie unlike any other of its kind. So disparate it’s not so much about abortion, as you’d expect. “It was so important that this movie isn’t about should I or shouldn’t I,” says lead actress Haley Lu Richardson, in talks with Nylon. Instead, abortion can be likened to a plot device, used to deepen themes of friendship, choice, and autonomy that characterize the movie. Of course, healthcare and women’s reproductive rights aren’t obsolete in the discourse, they crop up regularly on the opportunity, but Unpregnant is by far, a serious flick and is clear about its comedy intentions. 

The film revolves around high-schooler Veronica (Richardson) and her ex-best friend Bailey (Barbie Ferreira) who, when Veronica discovers she’s pregnant and wants to get an abortion, decide to take a road trip to a clinic in Albuquerque. What ensues is a coming of age tale, laced with banter and contrastingly touching moments. As Richardson puts it, “they go separate ways, and they each individually grow within themselves. Then they come together.” Aww. 

Being a comedy that touches on abortion, it’s certainly garnered some controversy. This is to be expected, however, shouldn’t take away from its progressive narrative, which argues for open discussion between friends and family on the topic of sex and choice. Whether pro-life or pro-choice, Unpregnant isn’t here to ‘stir the pot’ so to speak. Rather, it is to be enjoyed for what it is — a love story about two female friends having each other’s back. Destigmatizing abortion is an added benefit, of course.

The movie, from the producers of Riverdale and You, is available to stream on HBO Max now. We’ll catch you over there.  

Next Up, BFI London Film Festival Set To Open With ‘Mangrove,’ By Steve McQueen.