Already known somewhat reductively as “the abortion-themed rom-com,” “Obvious Child” will no doubt draw the accusation that it treats abortion like it’s nothing. What this fresh and witty film actually does is even bolder: it treats abortion like it’s something.
Generally, the topic is considered so radioactive by Hollywood that pregnancy movies as different as “Juno,” “Gimme Shelter,” “Knocked Up,” and even that 1980s chestnut “For Keeps” all mention abortion as briefly as possible before running away screaming and pretending like the discussion never happened. “Obvious Child” refuses that path, acknowledging the reality of young women and what they contemplate when facing an unwanted pregnancy.