Movies About Abortion On Netflix

From Akira Kurosawa, starring Toshirô Mifune, Takashi Shimura, Keiko Tsushima, Yukiko Shimazaki
Rated Not Rated

Seven Samurai is a 1954 Japanese film directed by Akira Kurosawa and starring Toshiro Mifune. The film follows the story of a small village in the 16th century that is terrorized by a group of bandits. In order to protect themselves, the villagers hire seven samurai warriors to defend them. The samurai, led by the veteran warrior Kambei Shimada (Toshiro Mifune), successfully fend off the attackers and ultimately gain the villagers’ respect. Despite their success, the samurai’s victory is bittersweet as they must soon leave the village. The film is widely considered to be one of the greatest films ever made and is credited with inspiring the genre of the “action-film”.

From Directors: Fernando Meirelles, Kátia Lund, starring Alexandre Rodrigues, Leandro Firmino, Matheus Nachtergaele, Phellipe Haagensen
Rated R

City of God is a 2002 crime drama film directed by Fernando Meirelles and Kátia Lund. The movie is set in the Cidade de Deus neighborhood of Rio de Janeiro, and tells the story of two young men, Rocket and Li'l Zé, and their involvement with organized crime. The movie follows Rocket's journey as he moves from a small-time pickpocket to a respected crime photographer, while Li'l Zé rises to the top of the drug-dealing business. The movie features a cast of unknown Brazilian actors, and cinematically portrays the violence, poverty, and corruption of life in the favelas. As Li'l Zé's power grows, Rocket finds himself increasingly torn between loyalty to his friend and fear for his own life, and ultimately must choose sides between them and the police. The movie uses a unique and engaging cinematographic style to tell its story. City of God has won numerous awards, including four Academy Award nominations and a BAFTA Award for Best Film Not in the English Language.

From Florian Henckel von Donnersmarck, starring Ulrich Mühe, Martina Gedeck, Sebastian Koch, Ulrich Tukur
Rated R

The Lives of Others is a German drama film set in East Berlin in 1984, before the fall of the Berlin Wall. It follows the story of Stasi Captain Gerd Wiesler, a highly competent officer who is assigned to spy on a renowned playwright and his actress girlfriend. Wiesler soon finds himself drawn in by the couple and is forced to confront his own beliefs in the process. The film explores themes of loyalty, love, morality, and the power of art. It was a critical and commercial success, and won an Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film in 2007.

From Akira Kurosawa, starring Toshirô Mifune, Yutaka Sada, Tatsuya Nakadai, Kyôko Kagawa
Rated Not Rated

High and Low is a classic Japanese crime drama directed by legendary director Akira Kurosawa. The film follows the story of a successful shoe company executive, Kingo Gondo (Toshiro Mifune), who is targeted by a ruthless kidnapper who demands an outrageous ransom. When Gondo discovers that the kidnapper has taken the wrong child, he is faced with a difficult moral dilemma: whether to pay the ransom to save the innocent life, or to save his own financial stability. As the tension mounts, Gondo must make the ultimate sacrifice in order to protect his family and ensure justice is served. High and Low is a story of morality and justice, and Kurosawa’s masterful direction creates a gripping and suspenseful thriller.

From Park Chan-wook, starring Choi Min-sik, Yoo Ji-tae, Kang Hye-jeong, Kim Byeong-Ok
Rated R

Oldboy is a South Korean psychological thriller written and directed by Park Chan-wook. The story follows a man named Oh Dae-su who, after being mysteriously imprisoned for 15 years, is released and attempts to uncover the identity of his captor in order to exact revenge. Along the way, he discovers dark secrets about himself and the people around him. The film is acclaimed for its intense and twisted plot, masterful cinematography, and compelling performances. It won the Grand Prix at the 2004 Cannes Film Festival and has become a cult classic.

From Christopher Nolan, starring Guy Pearce, Carrie-Anne Moss, Joe Pantoliano, Mark Boone Junior
Rated R

Memento is a psychological thriller directed by Christopher Nolan. The story follows a man named Leonard Shelby, who suffers from anterograde amnesia, meaning he cannot form new memories. He is obsessed with finding the person who raped and murdered his wife. To cope with his memory loss, Leonard has developed a system of Polaroid photos and tattoos to help him remember clues, people, and events that he encounters on his journey. As the movie progresses, we see Leonard's quest become increasingly desperate and complicated, as he begins to question his own identity and the true intentions of the people around him. The movie is told in two distinct timelines that unfold in reverse chronological order, creating a disorienting effect for the audience. In the end, Leonard is left with the realization that he may never truly find justice for his wife's death.

From Directors: Pete Docter, Bob Peterson, starring Edward Asner, Jordan Nagai, John Ratzenberger, Christopher Plummer
Rated PG

Up is an animated adventure comedy-drama film produced by Pixar Animation Studios and released by Walt Disney Pictures. The film follows the story of Carl Fredricksen, an elderly widower who fulfills his lifelong dream of travelling to South America by tying thousands of helium balloons to his house and embarking on an unforgettable journey. Along the way, he meets an enthusiastic young Wilderness Explorer named Russell, who helps him in his quest to fulfil his promise to his late wife to explore Paradise Falls. The two of them, along with a talking dog, go on a remarkable journey full of danger, adventure and surprises. With the help of a colorful cast of characters, Carl and Russell learn the true meaning of friendship, courage and determination.

From Masaki Kobayashi, starring Toshirô Mifune, Yôko Tsukasa, Gô Katô, Tatsuyoshi Ehara
Rated Not Rated

Samurai Rebellion is a 1967 Japanese film directed by Masaki Kobayashi. The film tells the story of Isaburo Sasahara (Toshiro Mifune), an aging samurai whose loyalty is tested when his lord decides to marry his son to Isaburo's daughter. Isaburo's daughter, Ichi, is in love with another man and objects to the marriage. Isaburo stands by her, incurring the wrath of the Lord and his retainers. When it becomes clear that the Lord will not relent, Isaburo takes drastic measures to protect his daughter's honor and his own. The film follows Isaburo and his son-in-law as they confront samurai tradition in a dramatic and ultimately violent showdown.

From Juan José Campanella, starring Ricardo Darín, Soledad Villamil, Pablo Rago, Carla Quevedo
Rated R

The Secret in Their Eyes is a 2009 Argentine crime drama film directed by Juan José Campanella based on the novel La pregunta de sus ojos by Eduardo Sacheri. The film follows a retired criminal court investigator, Benjamin Esposito, who decides to write a novel based on a twenty-five year old unsolved rape and murder case that still haunts him. Along the way, he reunites with his former boss and colleague, Irene Menéndez-Hastings, with whom he harbors a long-standing romantic interest. As he works on the novel, a series of flashbacks provide insight into the investigation, along with the effects it had on Esposito and Menéndez-Hastings. As he struggles to resolve the case, he discovers that some secrets are better left unsolved.

From Akira Kurosawa, starring Toshirô Mifune, Machiko Kyô, Masayuki Mori, Takashi Shimura
Rated Not Rated

Rashomon is a classic Japanese film directed by Akira Kurosawa. Set in 12th-century Japan, it tells the story of a crime from four different perspectives. A samurai is found dead and four characters tell their versions of the story. Through their dramatically different accounts, the truth behind the crime is slowly revealed. Along the way, the characters must confront their own moral dilemmas and their own conceptions of justice. The film is an exploration of the nature of truth and has been widely praised for its innovative storytelling and cinematography.

From Roman Polanski, starring Jack Nicholson, Faye Dunaway, John Huston, Perry Lopez
Rated R

Chinatown is a neo-noir mystery film released in 1974 and directed by Roman Polanski. The film stars Jack Nicholson as private detective J.J. "Jake" Gittes, who is hired by Evelyn Mulwray to investigate an alleged extramarital affair by her husband, Hollis Mulwray. Gittes' investigation leads him to uncover a web of intrigue and corruption involving Los Angeles' water supply and the powerful Chinatown Syndicate. He soon discovers that Hollis Mulwray was murdered and that his death was linked to a complex conspiracy involving the city's power brokers. Gittes must ultimately choose between justice and the truth, risking his own safety in the process.

From Alejandro G. Iñárritu, starring Emilio Echevarría, Gael García Bernal, Goya Toledo, Álvaro Guerrero
Rated R

Amores perros is a Mexican drama film directed by Alejandro G. Iñárritu, released in 2000. The film follows three intertwining stories of human tragedy and loss, linked together by their shared connection to a hit-and-run car accident in Mexico City. The first story centers on Octavio and his brother, who are planning a robbery in order to pay for an operation for Octavio's beloved pet dog. The second story follows Valeria, a young model whose husband has been cheating on her and is ignoring their child. The third story revolves around Daniel and his estranged brother, a former gang member who is released from prison and is trying to reconcile with his brother. The film seamlessly and powerfully explores themes of family, fate, and the fragility and resilience of the human spirit. Its intense and realistic portrayal of violence and its consequences makes it one of the most influential films of its era.

From Louis Malle, starring Gaspard Manesse, Raphael Fejtö, Francine Racette, Stanislas Carré de Malberg
Rated PG

Goodbye, Children is a 1987 French drama film directed by Louis Malle. Set during World War II, the film follows a group of students in a Catholic boarding school in Nazi-occupied France and the headmaster's struggle to protect them from the dangers of the war. The headmaster, Joseph, is a gentle and compassionate man, who attempts to shield the boys from the horrors of the war and to maintain a sense of normality in the school. However, the war encroaches on their lives and they must grapple with difficult choices. In the end, Joseph faces a heartbreaking decision between protecting his students and fulfilling his duty to the Nazi regime. Goodbye, Children is a powerful and moving story of humanity and courage in the face of a cruel and oppressive regime.

From Hirokazu Koreeda, starring Yûya Yagira, Ayu Kitaura, Hiei Kimura, Momoko Shimizu
Rated PG-13

Nobody Knows is a 2004 Japanese film directed by Hirokazu Koreeda, based on a true story. The film follows the story of four siblings, Akira (Yuya Yagira), Kyoko (Ayu Kitaura), Shigeru (Hiei Kimura), and Yuki (Momoko Shimizu) who are abandoned by their mother and left to fend for themselves in a Tokyo apartment. With no adult guidance or support, the children must learn how to survive on their own in a harsh urban environment. At first, their life is filled with fun and games, but as the months go by, their situation becomes increasingly desperate. The film is a powerful drama about the struggles of growing up alone, and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity.

From Yôjirô Takita, starring Masahiro Motoki, Ryôko Hirosue, Tsutomu Yamazaki, Kazuko Yoshiyuki
Rated PG-13

Departures is an award-winning Japanese drama film directed by Yôjirô Takita. The story follows Daigo Kobayashi (Masahiro Motoki), a former cellist who loses his job and is forced to return to his hometown in the Japanese countryside. After finding a job as a nōkanshi (encoffineer) at a funeral home, he gets to know his new profession and slowly learns to appreciate it as an act of compassion and dignity for the departed. Along the way, Daigo slowly reconciles with his estranged father, reconnects with his wife Mika (Ryoko Hirosue), and finds a new appreciation for life.

From Sidney Lumet, starring Al Pacino, John Cazale, Penelope Allen, Sully Boyar
Rated R

Dog Day Afternoon is a 1975 American crime drama film directed by Sidney Lumet and written by Frank Pierson, based on a true story. The film stars Al Pacino, John Cazale, and Charles Durning, and follows a man named Sonny, who attempts to rob a bank in order to pay for his lover’s gender-reassignment surgery. The film follows Sonny, who is desperate to pay for his lover's surgery, as he attempts to rob a bank. Despite his best efforts, the robbery quickly escalates into a hostage situation, with Sonny and his partners, Sal and John, holding the bank employees and customers hostage until they receive the money they need. As the siege continues, Sonny begins to gain the respect of the hostages and the media, even as the police and FBI swarm the building. With the police, government, and media all focused on the situation, Sonny must make a decision to either surrender or fight to the death. In the end, Sonny and Sal are arrested, while John is killed in a shootout.

From Cristian Mungiu, starring Anamaria Marinca, Laura Vasiliu, Vlad Ivanov, Alexandru Potocean
Rated Not Rated

4 Months, 3 Weeks and 2 Days is a 2007 Romanian drama film written and directed by Cristian Mungiu. The film follows two university friends, Otilia and Gabita, as they attempt to secure an illegal abortion in 1980s Romania. As the two women navigate a dangerous and uncertain system, they must also confront their own personal fears and ethical dilemmas. The film is widely praised for its gripping story and its realistic portrayal of a repressive and oppressive regime. 4 Months, 3 Weeks and 2 Days is considered to be one of the most important Romanian films of the 2000s and helped to launch Mungiu's much-acclaimed directorial career.

From Tomas Alfredson, starring Kåre Hedebrant, Lina Leandersson, Per Ragnar, Henrik Dahl
Rated R

Let the Right One In is a 2008 Swedish romantic horror film directed by Tomas Alfredson. The story follows the relationship between a 12-year-old boy, Oskar, who is bullied and isolated, and a young vampire girl, Eli, who moves into his neighbourhood. The two form a deep bond as they help each other deal with their respective struggles. As their relationship progresses, Oskar learns more about Eli’s dark past and their future together. The film is a thoughtful exploration of loneliness, love, and the power of friendship.

From Andrey Zvyagintsev, starring Vladimir Garin, Ivan Dobronravov, Konstantin Lavronenko, Nataliya Vdovina
Rated Not Rated

The Return is a 2003 drama film directed by Andrey Zvyagintsev. It tells the story of two brothers, Andrey and Ivan, who travel with their father on a mysterious journey to a remote island. While there, they start to learn about their father's past and the secrets he's been keeping. The film explores the idea of identity, family dynamics, and coming of age as the boys struggle to understand the truth about their father. It's a poetic, haunting and ultimately heart-wrenching story that probes the depths of the human condition.

From Jean-Pierre Melville, starring Alain Delon, Bourvil, Gian Maria Volontè, Yves Montand
Rated Not Rated

Le Cercle Rouge is a 1970 crime drama film, written and directed by Jean-Pierre Melville. It follows a trio of criminals, including an ex-convict (Alain Delon), an escaped convict (Gian-Maria Volonté), and an alcoholic marksman (Yves Montand). After their escape, these men must evade capture by the police while attempting to pull off one last heist. Along the way, the trio must confront their personal demons and the harsh realities of their criminal lifestyles. The film is a meditation on fate, morality, and the cyclical nature of crime. The film culminates in a suspenseful confrontation between the criminals and the police, which ultimately reveals how the criminal trio's destinies are intertwined.

From Na Hong-jin, starring Kim Yoon-seok, Ha Jung-woo, Yeong-hie Seo, Kim Yoo-jeong
Rated Not Rated

The Chaser is a South Korean thriller film directed by Na Hong-jin and starring Kim Yoon-seok and Ha Jung-woo. The film follows the story of a former detective named Joong-ho, who is desperate to find a missing girl. As he searches, he discovers a serial killer who is kidnapping and murdering young women. With the help of another detective, he races against time to find the killer and rescue the victims before it's too late. Along the way, Joong-ho finds himself in some dangerous and unexpected situations, and he must rely on his instincts, courage and detective skills to survive. The film is a thrilling and suspenseful story about justice, morality and the power of human ingenuity.

From Bong Joon Ho, starring Hye-ja Kim, Won Bin, Jin Goo, Je-mun Yun
Rated R

Mother is a 2009 South Korean thriller-drama film directed by Bong Joon Ho. The story follows a middle-aged woman, Hye-Ja (Kim Hye-Ja) as she tries to clear her mentally-challenged son, Do-Joon (Won Bin) of a murder charge. Determined to prove her son's innocence, Hye-Ja goes on a relentless quest for justice and truth, embarking on an emotional journey that will take her even further than the boundaries of her small town. Throughout the film, Hye-Ja's unconditional love for her son is tested as she discovers the shocking truth about his involvement with the crime. As she gets ever closer to the truth, Hye-Ja must decide if her son is really as innocent as he appears or if his mental disability has led him astray. With its complex characters and emotionally-charged story, Mother is a captivating exploration of love, loyalty, and justice.

From Jacques Audiard, starring Tahar Rahim, Niels Arestrup, Adel Bencherif, Reda Kateb
Rated R

A Prophet is a French crime thriller film directed by Jacques Audiard and released in 2009. The film follows Malik El Djebena, a young illiterate French-Arabic criminal who is sent to prison for a minor crime. In prison, he finds himself surrounded by powerful gangs that demand loyalty and respect. With the help of his mentor Reyeb, Malik manages to survive against all odds and eventually earns his place in the criminal underworld. As he rises through the ranks, he becomes increasingly powerful and learns the secrets of the crime world. He is eventually released from prison and uses his new found knowledge and power to become one of the most powerful criminals in France.

From Niels Arden Oplev, starring Michael Nyqvist, Noomi Rapace, Ewa Fröling, Lena Endre
Rated R

The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo is a Swedish crime drama directed by Niels Arden Oplev and based on the novel of the same name by Stieg Larsson. The film follows the story of Mikael Blomkvist, an investigative journalist, who is enlisted by a wealthy industrialist to solve a decades-old mystery involving the disappearance of his grand-niece, Harriet Vanger. Blomkvist teams up with a young computer hacker, Lisbeth Salander, to investigate the case. Together, they uncover a dark and twisted web of secrets and lies and uncover the truth about Harriet Vanger's disappearance. As they delve deeper into the crime, they become targets of a powerful adversary who will stop at nothing to protect his secrets.

From Ang Lee, starring Sihung Lung, Kuei-Mei Yang, Yu-Wen Wang, Chien-Lien Wu
Rated Not Rated

Eat Drink Man Woman is a 1994 romantic comedy-drama film directed by Ang Lee and starring Sihung Lung, Yu-Wen Wang, Chien-lien Wu, and Kuei-Mei Yang. Set in modern-day Taipei, the film follows the lives of a proud, aging father, his three grown daughters, and his recently laid-off chef. Every Sunday, the father, a widower, prepares a lavish feast for his daughters, who all lead very different, often tumultuous, lives. Over the course of the movie, tensions between the family members gradually lessen, and the family ultimately learns to appreciate and rely on each other. As his daughters mature, the father finally comes to terms with his own mortality and the changing times.