From Dirty Dancing to GLOW: How abortion on screen has changed

Jenny Slate in Obvious Child (2014). Still image via Rooks Nest Entertainment / Sundial Pictures / Votiv Films

Obvious Child (2014)

Newly-unemployed comedian Donna Stern has just broken up with her cheating boyfriend. In Obvious Child, she rebounds with a one-night stand and then discovers that she is pregnant. She has no qualms about getting an abortion. At least, not until one-night stand (whose name is Max) shows up at the bookstore where she works. He wants to get to know her. She plans to abort their baby. Awkwardness ensues.

This film is possibly one of the best depictions of abortion that exists. Donna’s feelings are the number one focus at every turn. She works through her decision with her friends, her parents, and with Max. All of them give her their unconditional support and reiterate that the decision is hers. Even when Max finds out in a very unconventional way — from Donna’s set at a stand-up show — he takes some time to think and then shows up to take her to the clinic.

Obvious Child depicts a single woman with no means or desire to have children at this point in her life and shows how she realistically approaches abortion. It also talks about the stigma associated with abortion and centers Donna in the decision-making, which is fantastic. Even when her best friend confesses to having had an abortion herself, the story is told to provide Donna with support and to remind her that her body is her decision. Always.

This film is funny, heartwarming, and ultimately ends in a very sweet romance. The main takeaway is that sometimes, things happen, and the best option is to figure out a way to move forward.