‘Happening’: Diwan’s abortion film is a distressing, timely, and important cinematic experience

“Happening” – “Accept it.  You have no choice.” – Dr. Ravinsky (Fabrizio Rongione) Dr. Ravinsky voices this message to Anne Duchesne (Anamaria Vartolomei), a 23-year-old literature student, during a follow-up visit.  Even though he delivers these words with regret and empathy, the blow isn’t tempered to Anne’s ears.  She does not consent.  She cannot concede. Anne is pregnant.  She wishes to terminate her pregnancy. However, it’s 1963 in Angoulême, France, and abortion won’t become legal until 1975.  Anne is stuck.  She wishes to continue her studies and verbalizes her situation.…