Never Rarely Sometimes Always
Movie Trailer
Release Date
March 13, 2020
Genre
Drama
Cast & Crew
- Sidney Flanigan as Autumn Callahan
- Talia Ryder as Skylar
- Théodore Pellerin as Jasper
- Ryan Eggold as Ted
- Sharon Van Etten as Autumn’s Mother
Director
Eliza Hittman
Other Movies Director is Known For
- Beach Rats (2017)
- It Felt Like Love (2013)
Producer
Adele Romanski, Sara Murphy, Rose Garnett
Writer
Eliza Hittman
Budget
$5 million (estimated)
Production Company
Focus Features, BBC Films, Pastel
Running Time
101 minutes
Languages
English
Maturity Rating
PG-13
Content Advisory
- Mature themes (teen pregnancy, abortion)
- Mild language
- Emotional distress
Movie Story
“Never Rarely Sometimes Always” is a powerful and intimate drama that tells the story of Autumn Callahan (Sidney Flanigan), a 17-year-old girl from rural Pennsylvania who finds herself unexpectedly pregnant. Without the support she needs at home and facing the legal barriers of her state, Autumn embarks on a journey to New York City with her cousin Skylar (Talia Ryder) to seek an abortion.
The film meticulously portrays the struggles and emotional turmoil that Autumn faces as she navigates a complex and often hostile system. Autumn’s journey is marked by quiet resilience; the film eschews melodrama in favor of a more restrained, realistic approach that underscores the gravity of her situation. The title of the film refers to a key scene in which Autumn undergoes a counseling session at a clinic, where she is asked a series of questions about her sexual and emotional history. Her responses—“never, rarely, sometimes, always”—reveal the depth of her experiences and the weight of the decisions she faces.
Sidney Flanigan delivers a deeply affecting performance as Autumn, capturing the character’s vulnerability and strength. Talia Ryder, as Skylar, provides crucial support, embodying the quiet solidarity and loyalty of a true friend. Their relationship is the emotional core of the film, as they face the challenges of their journey together, often in silence, but with an unspoken understanding.
“Never Rarely Sometimes Always” is a film about the quiet struggles of young women who are often overlooked and unheard. It’s a poignant exploration of the barriers to reproductive rights, the complexities of young womanhood, and the strength found in solidarity. Eliza Hittman’s direction is subtle yet powerful, creating a film that resonates long after the credits roll.
Special Effects
The film relies on naturalistic cinematography and performances rather than special effects. The realism of the settings and the intimate camera work enhance the authenticity of the story, drawing viewers into Autumn’s world.
Box Office Performance
“Never Rarely Sometimes Always” had a limited theatrical release due to the COVID-19 pandemic, but it gained significant attention through streaming platforms. It received widespread critical acclaim and found a strong audience despite the challenging release circumstances.
Filming Locations
- New York City, New York, USA
- Pennsylvania, USA
Notable Quotes
- “I’m just not ready to be a mom.” – Autumn
- “You’re not alone. I’m here.” – Skylar
Behind-the-Scenes
Sidney Flanigan was discovered by director Eliza Hittman through social media, making “Never Rarely Sometimes Always” her acting debut. The film was shot on location in New York City and Pennsylvania, with a focus on creating an authentic and immersive atmosphere.
Awards
- Berlin International Film Festival: Silver Bear Grand Jury Prize
- National Board of Review: Top Ten Independent Films
- New York Film Critics Circle Awards: Best Actress (Sidney Flanigan)
Final Verdict
“Never Rarely Sometimes Always” is a quietly devastating film that sheds light on the personal and systemic challenges faced by young women seeking reproductive care. With powerful performances and a deeply empathetic narrative, the film is a must-watch for those interested in socially relevant cinema. Its thoughtful and nuanced approach to a sensitive topic makes it a standout in contemporary film.
IMDb Rating
7.4/10