Mommy
A mother and her son explore a big box department store, falling into an increasingly bizarre string of events.
Insights
Plot Summary
A volatile single mother, Diane, struggles to regain custody of her erratic teenage son, Steve, who has ADHD. She brings him home from a juvenile detention center, but their cohabitation is fraught with escalating tension and emotional turmoil. As they attempt to build a semblance of a normal life, their intense, codependent relationship is tested by Steve's unpredictable behavior and Diane's own struggles.
Critical Reception
Mommy was met with widespread critical acclaim, praised for its powerful performances, bold direction, and raw emotional intensity. Critics lauded Dolan's unique visual style and the compelling portrayal of a dysfunctional mother-son relationship. It was particularly celebrated for its raw honesty and for pushing artistic boundaries.
What Reviewers Say
- Praised for its intense and raw portrayal of a complicated mother-son relationship.
- Xavier Dolan's distinctive visual style and direction were widely admired.
- The performances of the lead actors were highlighted as a major strength.
Google audience: Google users largely appreciate the film's emotional depth and the powerful performances, finding the story of a struggling mother and her troubled son to be compelling and moving. The unconventional filmmaking style also resonated with many viewers.
Awards & Accolades
Won the Jury Prize at the Cannes Film Festival (2014). Nominated for Best Foreign Language Film at the Golden Globe Awards (2015). Received numerous awards in Canada, including multiple wins at the Vancouver Film Critics Circle Awards and the Toronto Film Critics Association Awards.
Fun Fact
Director Xavier Dolan initially envisioned the film with a different aspect ratio, but decided to use a unique 1:1 square aspect ratio for most of the film to create a sense of intimacy and intensity, only expanding it during moments of emotional release or catharsis.
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