Never Rarely Sometimes Always is a poignant 2020 film directed by Eliza Hittman that follows the journey of a 17-year-old girl named Autumn (played by Sidney Flanigan) as she navigates the challenges of seeking an abortion. Set in a small town in Pennsylvania, the story begins with Autumn performing at a school talent show, where she faces ridicule from her peers. After discovering she is pregnant, Autumn learns that she cannot obtain an abortion without parental consent in her home state.
Determined to take control of her situation, Autumn confides in her cousin Skylar (Talia Ryder), and together they steal money from their workplace and travel to New York City, where minors can access abortion services without parental permission. The film captures their harrowing yet intimate experiences as they navigate public transportation, face various dangers, and seek support in an unfamiliar city.
A pivotal moment occurs when Autumn undergoes an intake interview at a Planned Parenthood clinic, where she answers questions about her sexual history using the titular phrases “never,” “rarely,” “sometimes,” and “always.” This scene highlights the emotional weight of her circumstances and the societal pressures surrounding young women. Ultimately, Never Rarely Sometimes Always is not just about the act of seeking an abortion; it is also a profound exploration of friendship, resilience, and self-determination amid adversity.
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