Never Rarely Sometimes Always

Never Rarely Sometimes Always (2020) Movie Review: Where to Watch Online

Never Rarely Sometimes Always (2020), directed by Eliza Hittman, is a poignant and deeply moving drama that offers a stark portrayal of a young woman’s journey through a difficult and emotional experience. The film has garnered critical acclaim for its sensitive handling of complex themes and its powerful performances. This review will delve into the film’s plot, themes, and where to stream, rent, or purchase it online in the United States.

Plot Summary

Never Rarely Sometimes Always follows the story of Autumn Callahan (played by Sidney Flanigan), a 17-year-old girl from a small town in Pennsylvania. When Autumn discovers she is pregnant, she faces the daunting challenge of navigating the complexities of obtaining an abortion. Given the restrictive laws and limited access to healthcare in her state, Autumn and her cousin Skylar (played by Talia Ryder) decide to travel to New York City for the procedure.

The film captures the emotional and physical challenges of their journey, highlighting the obstacles they encounter, including the difficulties of arranging the abortion and the pervasive stigma surrounding their situation. Throughout their trip, the film explores the bond between the cousins and their struggle to maintain hope and dignity in the face of adversity.

The title of the film refers to a pivotal scene in which Autumn undergoes a counseling session, where she is asked a series of questions about her situation. This scene serves as a powerful and harrowing moment that underscores the emotional weight of the decision she faces.

Themes and Analysis

Never Rarely Sometimes Always addresses several significant themes:

1. Reproductive Rights and Access: The film shines a light on the challenges faced by young women seeking reproductive healthcare, particularly in areas with restrictive laws and limited resources. It emphasizes the difficulties and barriers that can make such a decision even more daunting.
2. Empowerment and Autonomy: Autumn’s journey is a testament to her quest for autonomy over her own body and life. The film portrays her struggle to assert her rights and make decisions for herself despite external pressures and obstacles.
3. Support and Solidarity: The relationship between Autumn and Skylar is central to the film. Their support for each other underscores the importance of solidarity and mutual care in navigating challenging situations.
4. Emotional and Psychological Impact: The film explores the emotional and psychological impact of unintended pregnancy and the process of seeking an abortion. It offers a raw and honest portrayal of the internal and external struggles faced by the protagonist.

Eliza Hittman’s direction is marked by a restrained and empathetic approach. The film’s use of intimate, close-up shots and naturalistic dialogue creates a sense of immediacy and realism. The understated performances by Sidney Flanigan and Talia Ryder contribute to the film’s powerful emotional resonance.

Where to Watch Never Rarely Sometimes Always (2020) Online

For those interested in watching Never Rarely Sometimes Always, there are several options available for streaming, rental, and purchase in the United States.

Streaming Services

1. Hulu
   • Never Rarely Sometimes Always is available for streaming on Hulu. Subscribers can watch the film as part of their subscription.
2. Amazon Prime Video
   • The film may also be available for streaming with an Amazon Prime subscription, depending on regional licensing agreements.

Rental/Purchase Services

1. Amazon Prime Video
   • Never Rarely Sometimes Always can be rented or purchased on Amazon Prime Video. Renting typically costs around $3.99, while purchasing it in HD is usually priced at $12.99.
2. Apple iTunes
   • The film is available for rent or purchase on Apple iTunes. Renting generally costs $3.99, and purchasing it is around $14.99.
3. Google Play Movies & TV
   • Google Play Movies & TV offers the film for rent or purchase. Pricing is similar to other digital platforms, providing another option for viewers.
4. Vudu
   • Vudu has Never Rarely Sometimes Always available for rent or purchase. The prices are comparable to other platforms, and Vudu often has promotions that may offer discounts.
5. YouTube Movies
   • YouTube Movies provides Never Rarely Sometimes Always for rent or purchase, with prices typically in line with other digital services.

Conclusion

Never Rarely Sometimes Always (2020) is a powerful and emotionally charged drama that offers a poignant exploration of reproductive rights and personal autonomy. Directed by Eliza Hittman, the film’s intimate portrayal of a young woman’s journey highlights both the personal and systemic challenges faced in seeking reproductive healthcare.

Available for streaming on platforms like Hulu and potentially Amazon Prime Video, and for rental or purchase on services like Amazon, Apple iTunes, Google Play Movies & TV, Vudu, and YouTube Movies, accessing this film is straightforward. Whether you’re interested in films that tackle important social issues or are drawn to compelling character-driven narratives, Never Rarely Sometimes Always provides a deeply moving and thought-provoking viewing experience.