MAMI Film Fest Review. Mother!.

Rating: 9/10 (19 October 2017)

Biblical, Shocking, Violence & Unsettling, Darren Aronofsky's 'Mother!' is a difficult but confounding film, that's likely to leave you either enthralled or unimpressed. I fall into the category of those 'who loved it'. And here's why: How many films can shock you & raise questions with such ferocity? I don't remember the last time it happened. And that's exactly why 'Mother!' is such big winner. It swept me off my feat.
'Mother!' Synopsis: A couple's relationship is tested when uninvited guests arrive at their home, disrupting their tranquil existence.
'Mother!' is about us & how one is responsible for the surroundings we get. Mother Nature is all we have & we mustn't enrage or disrespect her, as she is our goddess now and forever. Aronofsky has made a film, that begins subtly, but turns into a nightmarish, violent tale of a Mother. And its all done skillfully. Aronofsky's relentless approach to this unsettling tale is of top order. His Screenplay, entirely biblical, builds up slowly, but grows on ferociously & ends on a highly intense note. Aronofsky's Direction is, as usual, effective. Weather its The claustrophobic setting or the shocking violence, Aronofsky's commitment to the subject remains highly commendable. Matthew Libatique's Cinematography captures the carnage, magnificently. Andrew Weisblum's Editing is mostly sharp. Art & Costume Design merit a special mention. The Background Score, also, is fabulous & adds to the intense proceedings.
Performance-Wise: Jennifer Lawrence is in top-form, yet again! As Mother, the Oscar-Winner expresses fright, shock & rage, with rare conviction. Its a terrific performance! Javier Bardem as her Husband, is effective. Ed Harris & Michelle Pfeiffer do some of their best work here, especially Pfeiffer, who leaves a strong impact in a small role. Domhnall Gleeson is appropriately creepy as Pfeiffer & Harris's troubled son. Kristen Wiig stands out in a scary cameo.
On the whole, 'Mother!' is a winner all the way. Its truly something to be experienced. Strongly Recommended!