"Mother!" isn't really a horror film. Although it kinda is in a way. It has a dark and foreboding tone, there are jump scares, as well as some disturbingly violent scenes, which they all admittedly fit the description of it being a horror film. So how about I just say that it definitely isn't a mainstream horror or scary movie? Either way, go into this without any preconception as much as possible, as it is easily the most WTF movie, and an experience unlike anything I've seen in 2017. It goes to some insane places. It's all just madness I tell you. Madness!
I suppose the easiest non-spoilers description I could give this film is that it's mysterious and suspenseful. Right from the opening first minute, it immediately throws you into a sense of being on guard, and constantly guessing as to what's going to happen next. You're likely going to continue to be on guard, and to continue guessing all the way until the very end. Going through this film is like an endurance test of emotions, that ranges from bewilderment, anxiety, frustration, anger, to shock.
One of the cinematic tricks that this movie does is that you see everything through Jennifer Lawrence's perspective. You either see what's happening over her shoulder, through her point of view, or from her facial reaction. Let's just say that it's a bit disorienting, and only adds to the sense of confusion as to what's going on. It does make it really easy to empathize with Jennifer Lawrence's character though. I should point out that Lawrence is amazing in her role here, and she brilliantly translates the emotional roller coaster that her character goes through on screen.
This is one of those cinematic visionary works that is likely going to provoke a very divisive reaction for those who see it. Some might take issue with the themes of the movie, while others are just going to be confused as to what the theme is in the first place. Some might say that it's too opaque, while others might accuse it for being too obvious. Writer-Director Darren Aronofsky has given us an experience that demands to be talked about. Even if you watch this movie at face value as to what is just being shown on screen, you are still going to want to work through what it is you just witnessed. Fantastic work all around!
lovedit ENJOYED IT itsokayitsmehitsterrible
