Obvious Child

Obvious Child is a distinctive, poignant, and humorous film released in 2014. This independent comedy-drama movie directed by Gillian Robespierre is rooted in facets of ordinary life that are seldom laid bare in visual media with such authenticity and grace. The movie, based on a short film of the same name also by Robespierre, became a standout for its unflinching take on a subject usually enveloped in controversy.

In the movie, we follow the misadventures of the protagonist, Donna Stern, convincingly played by Jenny Slate, who delivers a superbly compelling performance. Donna is a Brooklyn-based comedian whose storytelling form of stand-up is based on intimate aspects of her life. From relationships to personal insecurities, nothing is off-limits in Donna's self-deprecating comedic monologues that entertain her dedicated small fanbase. However, her penchant for revealing private details takes an unexpected turn when her long-term boyfriend, incapable of tolerating his personal life becoming frequent fodder for her shows, breaks up with her in a public restroom following her act.

Added to this is Donna's setback in her professional life as well - she learned that she is about to lose her job in a failing bookstore. This snowballing sequence of unfortunate events gradually affects Donna's emotional state and stand-up performances, taking her life into an altogether different direction. Breaking up her usual comedic acts are her bouts of unhappiness and sincere emotional vulnerability, adding to the layered representation of her character.

Donna's life takes yet another unexpected turn following a drunken one-night stand with the charming yet slightly reserved Max (played by Jake Lacy). The ramifications of this impulsive encounter take center stage in the subsequent narrative of Obvious Child. Lacy, seen in a supporting role, effortlessly complements Slate's stellar performance, making their on-screen chemistry feel natural and unforced.

Gaby Hoffmann stars as Nellie, Donna's best friend, who aids her in navigating the chaos of her life. Hoffmann's character is pragmatic, offering logical advice that offsets Donna's seemingly manic approach to her problems. This supportive network is further extended to include Donna's divorced parents, each of whom offers contrasting attitudes that shape her world perspective leaning towards ambition and dreams on one end and practicality and responsibility on the other.

Obvious Child is strikingly original in the sense that it tackles a sensitive subject matter – unplanned pregnancy and abortion. It does so not in hushed whispers, but in candid, open dialogue and intuitive monologues that provide the narrative's backbone. The film does a commendable job of presenting these topics with a pinch of humor without diminishing the gravity of the situation.

The narrative centers around Donna's journey of dealing with her unplanned pregnancy and the decision that she makes. The movie doesn't focus on the moral implications of her choice. Instead, it delves into the emotional and psychological ramifications it has on her life and on her relationships, especially when contrasted with societal expectations.

The film is notable for the realistic portrayal of its characters and the rawness with which it deals with decidedly adult situations. It depicts attribute of genuine human fallibility through characters that are relatable and situations that resonate with a modern audience dealing with contemporary issues.

With its liberal sprinklings of wit and heart, Obvious Child is a refreshing and non-judgmental exploration of womanhood, independence, and decision-making. It's a roller-coaster ride, taking us through laughter, tears, embarrassment, and tenderness, all delivered effectively in this package of a film. Robespierre's skilled directing and an excellent script further amplify the film's appeal.

Obvious Child stands as an emotionally rich piece of cinema with powerful performances, most notably by Jenny Slate, who effectively manages to leave a lasting impression with her portrayal of Donna, a true testament to her acting prowess.

Ultimately, the brilliance of Obvious Child lies in its capacity to blend drama with topical issues, relationships, comedy, and earnest emotion, yielding a film that is both socially relevant and an enjoyable watch. It's an engaging trip that sheds light on life’s not-so-obvious aspects while retaining its ability to make us smile. Some might even say it's a brave and candid reminder of the trials, triumphs, and growing pains that are a part of adulthood, making Obvious Child a must-watch film for its honesty, humor, and heart.