Memorable, Problematic and also Brilliant

Rating: 8/10 (16 September 2017)

This film is unexpected and an experience like none I've had in the movie theater recently. This is exactly why I enjoy Darren Aronofsky's work, I go to the cinema to be blown away, see something I've never seen before and he's so good at that. It's a difficult watch in parts I won't lie but I certainly wouldn't consider it horror like some were saying. It's suspenseful, shocking, some will absolutely love it and others will despise it. I loved it because it comes at you like a ton of bricks or a car that's gone out of control - it grabs you and doesn't let go. Its a cerebral thrill ride, a mystery of epic proportions until the end, at which point your brain is scrambled eggs.
Jennifer Lawrence and Javier Bardem were incredibly good together, I worried if they would have any energy between them, so I was pleasantly surprised by that. I think Lawrence has matured greatly as an actress and leading woman, she grabbed the reigns on this film, commanded it and held it strongly for the entire film. She's evolved and its obvious, Aronofsky rightly just let her shine and she did. People hate her for whatever reason and that's cool but you can't deny her talent. I couldn't even begin to consider who could've done this role as well as she did. Javier was wonderful as always, truly one of the greatest underrated actors working today.
Michelle Phiffer and Ed Harris were a great addition to the film and I realized how much I miss seeing Michelle on film. I'd like to see her get nominated but I doubt it. Jennifer may or may not get nominated, I think its 50/50 but I definitely don't see a win. I could be wrong on both counts.
I'd be lying if I said the film didn't have its issues because it does, but I still really enjoyed it. There were lots of other surprises which I wont spill here and I hesitate to say much more about the film for fear of ruining it, but go into this with an open mind. Aronofsky always has something to say and this film is pulpy, its deep, open your mind when you walk in and let Darren take you on this strange trip of a film he called 'mother!'. (B+)