Unplanned: An Honest Review

Many people pray to be kept out of unexpected problems.
Some people pray to be able to confront and overcome them― Toba Beta

UNPLANNED an independent faith-based feature film, hit theaters over the weekend. Typically that’s no big deal, but this film has struck a nerve. Supporters and critics alike quickly went to their respective corners to praise or condemn it. Lost in the fray is an honest evaluation of the movie. A Crows View looks to change that oversight.

Since the hot button topic of abortion is the backdrop for UNPLANNED and Planned Parenthood the target, distinct battles lines are drawn. Unfortunately most reviews—good or bad—are based on the author’s politics rather than the film itself. That is a shame because this film deserves an honest review.

The movie centers around Abby Johnson. A young college coed from a conservative Texas family who went on to rise through the ranks of Planned Parenthood, from volunteer to clinic director. The film chronicles Abby’s life from a failed marriage and two secret abortions, to her conversion to a pro-life point of view.

Before I review the movie, there are some issues that need addressed. UNPLANNED has faced some resistance by “establishment” forces that may oppose the film because of its portrayal of Planned Parenthood and abortion. Networks and other media outlets have refused to run paid advertising for the film. Social media sites have suspended the movie’s account and even been suspected of other shenanigans involving dropping followers and restricting access. Twitter being the most prominent site accused of such behavior. The producers also blame the Motion Picture Association of America (MPPA) of playing politics for giving the film an R rating to further restrict audience reach.

These allegations are very series and they do appear to be true. According to The Daily Wire’s Paul Bois, “Lifetime, Hallmark Channel, HGTV and other cable networks…completely blocked “Unplanned” trailers from their platforms.” The Hollywood Reporter confirms this by reporting, “every other mainstream television outlet has declined to air the [UNPLANNED] ad.”

The Twitter “shadow banning” controversy appears to be working itself out. The latest numbers following a brief suspension and a click snafu with the “Follow” button shows that UNPLANNED’s Twitter handle has more than 317K followers, surpassing the film’s target Planned Parenthood by nearly 60K.

The final issue plaguing the film is it’s MPAA rating. The film makers argue it’s a targeted rating to reduce audience participation. There is a case that can be made for a PG-13 rating. The film doesn’t have nudity, sex, foul language, graphic violence or gory scenes, when compared to similar rated movies. I believe the R rating is fair giving the subject matter, content and target audience. If the MPAA did play politics with its rating, that is a shame. Since this is an issue that’s a little harder to prove malicious intent, the rating stands.

Despite the fore mentioned challenges, the film is doing quite well at the box office. Its opening weekend UNPLANNED finished in the top five overall for gross receipts.

The strength of the film can be credited to several attributes. UNPLANNED employs some great film making techniques that give it a big budget “feel.” It is also well-produced, directed and edited. The acting is another strong point in the movie, which eludes many faith-based films.

Two breakout performances standout. Both are by women. The lead actress Ashley Bratcher delivers a fabulous portrayal of Abby Johnson. Her talent and abilities were put to a test in this role, which she nailed. The range of emotions displayed throughout the film could not have been done by a lesser actress. Her performance was absolutely flawless throughout the film.

A critical scene in the film is where Abby takes part in an ultrasound assisted abortion. It is a seminole event for the character, and Bratcher delivers a particularly stunning performance. Using only her facial expression and eyes, Bratcher effectively conveys the inner turmoil at what Abby is witnessing.

The quick cuts during the abortion, from the ultrasound image to close-up shots of Bratcher’s face, made the scene more powerful. The editing and camera shots at that critical juncture in the film brought gravitas to that scene. It’s a testament not only to the genius of Bratcher, but of the crew as well.

The other breakout performance was by veteran actress Robia Scott. She played Cheryl the clinic director who took Abby under her wing and guided her career at Planned Parenthood. Scott’s performance as chief antagonist is outstanding. The role of Cheryl requires her to be disliked—if not hated—by the audience. Scott delivered; she was magnificent and realistic as the heartless corporate lackey who turns on Abby.

The confrontation scenes between Abby and Cheryl, after Abby is driven to leave Planned Parenthood, are great moments in the film. Particularly the scene when Abby is pulled to the side and admonished by Cheryl for challenging her in a meeting.

Scott’s superb performance in those scenes set up a very satisfying moment towards the end of the picture when Cheryl gets knocked down a peg or two. That satisfaction wouldn’t be possible without Scott’s impeccable execution in those earlier key scenes. The performance by Scott is a highlight of the film.

There is a lot to like about this movie. The dramatic scenes are as good as you’d see in any blockbuster. The character development is robust, and the chemistry between the cast is stellar.

Since UNPLANNED is based on the true story of Abby Johnson, who did work at Planned Parenthood in Bryan, TX and was a pro-choice advocate, may account for some corporate opposition to this feature film. Politics aside UNPLANNED is worth watching.

Actress Patricia Heaton once stated, “In reality, most women ‘choose’ abortion because they believe they have no other choice. Women who experience unplanned pregnancy also deserve unplanned joy.” That appears to be the film’s underlining message.

Ultimately UNPLANNED will only reaffirm the views of an avid pro-life supporter, while someone on the other end of the spectrum will not be phased by the “choose life” component of the film. However a person not engaged in the abortion debate, or someone contemplating having a procedure done, might be swayed by the film. That may actually be how the film makers measure success.