Watch Ask for Jane

Ask for Jane is a historical drama based on a true story that takes place in the late 1960s in the United States. The film follows a group of young women who are faced with unwanted pregnancies, and the extreme measures they take to obtain safe and legal abortions. The story is set in a time when abortion was illegal and considered a criminal offense in most states. The main character, a 20-year-old college student named Judy (played by Cait Cortelyou), discovers that she is pregnant and decides to terminate the pregnancy. However, she quickly learns that abortion is illegal in New York, where she lives, and is forced to resort to dangerous methods to end her pregnancy.

Judy is introduced to a group of feminist activists who are dedicated to helping women obtain safe and legal abortions. The group is led by Jane (Cody Horn), a strong and passionate young woman who has already helped many women in similar situations as Judy. With the help of her friends and Jane's network, Judy is able to obtain a legal abortion in Puerto Rico, an achievement in a time when women had little access to reproductive healthcare.

As Judy becomes more involved with the group, she realizes that the problem is much bigger than her own personal struggle. She discovers that thousands of women across the country are seeking to end unwanted pregnancies, but are unable to do so due to the lack of access to safe and legal procedures. The group decides to take a bold step and establish an underground network of abortion providers, offering safe and affordable abortions to women in need.

The movie portrays the journey of these young women as they fight against the system, the social norms and the stigma associated with abortion. They use their own bodies to accommodate other women, and they take huge risks to ensure that the right to reproductive healthcare is accessible to everyone. Through their relentless efforts, they create a ripple of change in legislation and perception, paving the way for future generations of women to have autonomy over their bodies.

The storyline is backed with an incredible cast that delivers impeccable performances. Cody Horn is particularly impressive as the fierce and resilient Jane. Her character embodies the spirit of revolution that inspires and motivates the group to take such bold steps. Cait Cortelyou as Judy brings a delicate sensitivity to the story as the young woman who is thrown into a challenging situation. Sarah Steele as Heather, another member of the group, also brings a quiet strength to the film as a young woman who has personal experience with the struggle for reproductive freedom.

The film's direction is adept at capturing the tone and atmosphere of the time period. The cinematography feels authentic, and the costumes and production design bring the 1960s to life. The soundtrack adds an edginess to the plot, creating a sense of excitement and anticipation.

Overall, Ask for Jane is a powerful depiction of a crucial moment in the history of reproductive rights. It serves as a reminder of the lengths that women have had to go to gain control over their own bodies, and the bravery required to make change happen. It is empowering to see the dedication, the passion and the perseverance of the characters, who in a time of darkness and desperation provided hope and light. Ask for Jane is a must-watch for anyone who is interested in learning more about the journey towards reproductive freedom in America.

Ask for Jane is a 2019 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 48 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.9.