Unlike Obvious Child, which remains one of the most miserable viewing experiences of the 21st century, Saint Frances is a legitimately funny movie about abortion that also intelligently weaves in refreshingly straightforward depictions of gay parenting and postpartum depression.

The indie charmer is an impressive feature writing debut for actress Kelly O’Sullivan (Henry Gamble's Birthday Party), who also makes for a magnetic leading lady as Bridget, a 34-year-old Chicagoan who’s yet to do much with her life.

The waitress’ days receive a boost via strong comedic rapport with new, slightly younger love interest Jace (newcomer Max Lipchitz), with whom she soon navigates an unwanted pregnancy that’s depicted with laudable detail, humor, and honesty by O’Sullivan and Alex Thompson, likewise making his feature directorial debut.

Here and once Bridget is hired by affluent Annie (Lily Mojekwu, Widows) and Maya (Charin Alvarez, Princess Cyd) to be the summer nanny for their six-year-old daughter Frances (Ramona Edith Williams) while Maya cares for their newborn son, Thompson’s style is so bereft of male gaze that it’s somewhat of a shock to discover that his name isn’t short for Alexandra.

While Saint Frances unfortunately loses track of Jace when Bridget develops eyes for attractive older guitar instructor Isaac (Jim True-Frost, The Hudsucker Proxy) — a largely forgettable and inconsequential tangent — the quality laughs remain steady as the focus shifts to Bridget and Frances.

Not asked to do anything beyond her capabilities and allowed to lean on her natural comedic gifts, Williams delivers a nicely independent yet smartly directed child performance centered on Frances saying the darndest things in public, much to our delight and Bridget's horror.

As nanny and ward develop a strong, trusting bond and the complications of Frances’ mothers’ marriage become more pronounced, the film gradually goes from a well-written lark to something far more sweet and substantial.

By its end, Saint Frances also feels surprisingly complete — a rarity for a well-funded or budget-friendly comedy, and solidifies its gifted cast and crew of relative newcomers as talents to watch.

Grade: B-plus. Not Rated, but with adult language and content. Available to stream on March 23 via Grail Moviehouse

(Photo: Oscilloscope Laboratories)