Never Rarely Sometimes Always
Directed by Eliza Hittman
Written by Eliza Hittman
The review:
Eliza Hittman takes us on a journey worthy of an epic poem* so a young woman can get a procedure that should be available to her in her own small town. On the way, we see how rules to “protect”** women actually end up putting them in more danger, the things women sacrifice for other women, and a quiet, perfect performance by Sidney Flanigan. By the time you get to the scene where the phrase “never, rarely, sometimes, always” is used, you will never forget the order of the words in this very wordy title.
The verdict: Recommended.
Cost: HBOMax monthly fee of ($12.99) (Still living off the WW84 purchase)
Where watched: at home
Consider also watching:
Further sentences:
*It’s interesting to see how little of Flanigan’s life we learn about before the journey begins in earnest and how the sparse details we do find paint a vivid picture.
**But we know why those rules are passed and it has nothing to do with protection and everything to do with control.
Questions:
- What moment of this film will be seared on your heart forever?
- How many ways (big and small) were Autumn & Skyler violated in this film?
Favorite IMDB trivia item:
Prior to this film, Sidney Flanigan worked as a janitor.
Other reviews of Never Rarely Sometimes Always:
- Ann Hornaday, The Washington Post
- Mary Sollosi, Entertainment Weekly