Read Positive User Reviews for mother!

10

WatchMyShortzSep 15, 2017

I'm not the kind of person that usually gives 10/10 scores on Metacritic, or even in general, but Mother! is easily my favourite film of the year. It was a captivating, dark, cynical story about love that truly left me unsettled and in aweI'm not the kind of person that usually gives 10/10 scores on Metacritic, or even in general, but Mother! is easily my favourite film of the year. It was a captivating, dark, cynical story about love that truly left me unsettled and in awe for hours after I'd seen it. Jennifer Lawrence gives a strong performance in the leading role, and Aronofsky's direction puts us right in her shoes as we experience every step of her intense journey. It's sure to piss of a lot of casual filmgoers and it's not for the faint-hearted, but as someone who loves film and appreciates directors that try new things, Mother! is my favourite film of the year so far, followed by It Comes At Night and Dunkirk… Expand

36 of 76 users found this helpful3640

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10

DaydreamInBlueSep 20, 2017

This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Mother! is a disturbingly brilliant film by Darren Aronofsky with terrific performances by Jennifer Lawrence and Javier Bardem. The religious/mother nature allegory within the film was completely unexpected but welcomed with its beautiful execution. In a way, Mother! reminds me of the creepy, unsettling nature of Kubrick's 'The Shining', focusing on the characters and the environment in which they live as a means of building tension and suspense... Definitely one of the most intense movies I've ever had the pleasure of seeing.… Expand

15 of 32 users found this helpful1517

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10

cag345Sep 19, 2017

This movie is brilliant in all the senses. It cannot be horror as the trailer presented it but it's a clear criticism of the religion and the impact that humans have on the planet earth. We need to celebrate this kind of risk that only a fewThis movie is brilliant in all the senses. It cannot be horror as the trailer presented it but it's a clear criticism of the religion and the impact that humans have on the planet earth. We need to celebrate this kind of risk that only a few amount of directors are taking to elevate the cinema. Aronofsky is a director, who gave us brilliant films like requiem for a dream and black swan, and with mother! he doesn't disappoint. Lawrence performance is good (excellent choice of casting), all the members of the crew and all the elements involved in this movie, make it a masterpiece… Expand

16 of 37 users found this helpful1621

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10

julius98Sep 17, 2017

I think this movie deserves an 8 or 9 out of 10, but mark it at a 10 to counteract all the stupid criticism this movie has garnered. Yes, it's a criticism of religion. Yes, it went completely overboard, but goddamnit, this is a superb movie,I think this movie deserves an 8 or 9 out of 10, but mark it at a 10 to counteract all the stupid criticism this movie has garnered. Yes, it's a criticism of religion. Yes, it went completely overboard, but goddamnit, this is a superb movie, from the theme to the acting to the camera shots and even the dialogue. Where it struggles is in pacing, but the mere fact that someone patched together this bunch of madness into such a good movie more than makes up for it. Go into the movie expecting disturbing visuals, but come out pondering what life on earth is.… Expand

16 of 38 users found this helpful1622

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10

mfallikSep 16, 2017

I haven't seen a movie that left me so emotionally and intellectually stimulated since Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind. This film is like nothing I've ever seen, and I just can't seem to get it out of my head. Don't go in thinkingI haven't seen a movie that left me so emotionally and intellectually stimulated since Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind. This film is like nothing I've ever seen, and I just can't seem to get it out of my head. Don't go in thinking you're going to see a horror film. Be prepared to analyze dense allegorical content, and be prepared to read a lot afterward to better understand it. Just brilliant.… Expand

15 of 36 users found this helpful1521

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10

ajl96Sep 16, 2017

This is Aronofsky's rage project. A film that needs to be seen to believed. People will either hate it or love it (I loved it), but one thing is for sure, it is unforgettable. Masterful performances (especially Jennifer Lawrence), direction,This is Aronofsky's rage project. A film that needs to be seen to believed. People will either hate it or love it (I loved it), but one thing is for sure, it is unforgettable. Masterful performances (especially Jennifer Lawrence), direction, cinematography, SOUND DESIGN make this a wholly cinematic experience.… Expand

15 of 36 users found this helpful1521

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10

gerry6992Sep 15, 2017

Crazy-good! Arofonsky is such a visionary director. This movie will likely polarize the audience, but it's impossible not to recognize his amazing talent. Lawrence is incredible as well. Perfect combo.

16 of 40 users found this helpful1624

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10

tuna37Sep 16, 2017

I walked out of Mother deeply shocked. There were people standing around outside the theater looking dazed and confused. And then I realized just how familiar this stunned state is. This is the madness we are living each day; pausing beforeI walked out of Mother deeply shocked. There were people standing around outside the theater looking dazed and confused. And then I realized just how familiar this stunned state is. This is the madness we are living each day; pausing before hitting the refresh button on the news webpages, not sure if we are ready for the violence, devastation and pure narcissistic greed visited upon us each day. Just when it seems like things can't get worse: as in the film,,they do. Great film making. Thanks Darren Aronofsky for the experience of art and reality in the cinema again. Thanks for connecting me with what has been buried so deep. WARNING: for the Saturday night movie goer, this is definitely not a date movie.… Expand

16 of 40 users found this helpful1624

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10

dramaxandraSep 15, 2017

I saw it last night and really liked that movie. It is not like anything you´ve seen before. A story about a couple and their house as well as about the universe, earth, mankind. It´s former title "Day 6" is telling a bit more what it is allI saw it last night and really liked that movie. It is not like anything you´ve seen before. A story about a couple and their house as well as about the universe, earth, mankind. It´s former title "Day 6" is telling a bit more what it is all about, I think. The idea is truly unique and hopefully this movie will make people talk and think and talk again... and then maybe think a bit more of what they can do for our future on earth. And while doing that they can enjoy absolutely magnificent performances by all actors, but mostly by Jennifer Lawrence and Michelle Pfeiffer. Both of them were absolutely Oscar-worthy looking at what I´ve seen this year so far.… Expand

20 of 57 users found this helpful2037

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7

DawdlingPoetNov 25, 2021

This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. This is a relatively frenetic film, with lots of shaky camerawork, quite fast paced scenes of initially domesticity but then something goes wrong. Jennifer Lawrence I thought did quite well as the clearly anxious wife, very much sensing things are going to go badly wrong and having to deal with the situation she finds herself in. This is less of a jumpscare heavy sort of a horror film and more of a slightly spooky film with a heavy emphasis on symbols and how you interpret things. There is a fair bit of blood shown across some scenes, so be aware of that. There's also some hushed dialogue which was a bit hard to follow in full, which may frustrate some. I'd say its fairly atmospheric. The tone of voice of some of the male characters is definitely...frustrating and borderline creepy possibly. I imagine a lot of women could relate to the feeling of loss of control, loss of space and privacy that's portrayed in this film. Javier Bardem also gives a pretty decent performance in this claustrophobic film. It won't be a film that will appeal to all and I felt it seemed a bit ludicrous when pace wise it headed towards the last quarter or so but overall its relatively good for what it is, so I suppose I would recommend it, yes.… Expand

1 of 1 users found this helpful10

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10

paltareinaNov 13, 2021

It's definitely a masterpiece. Jennifer Lawrence gives the best performance of her career. With each new viewing you get to notice more and more things

2 of 4 users found this helpful22

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7

TheQuietGamerOct 6, 2018

Worst. Houseguests. EVER.

I spent the majority of the movie in a state of perpetual confusion. It's a challenging piece of cinema and in more ways than one. The content can be downright horrifying and it in no way holds your hand when tryingWorst. Houseguests. EVER.

I spent the majority of the movie in a state of perpetual confusion. It's a challenging piece of cinema and in more ways than one. The content can be downright horrifying and it in no way holds your hand when trying to decipher what all of it means. It proves that Darren Aronofsky is not just a filmmaker, but an artist. As problematic as mother! can be, I appreciate him for creating something so provocative.

The reason the film is so divisive is because it can be interpreted in a myriad of different ways. Everything is very symbolic. It's also an extremely harsh movie. It's graphic content is both the intelligent, mature work of a tortured soul and the profane temper tantrum of a petulant child. Pretentious, puerile, and poignant.

By the time the movie ended I had already changed my interpretation of it several times before forming my own conclusion. Of course I did end up looking up what the film is actually supposed to be about (I just had to know) and found out I was totally wrong. I had picked up on some of the symbolism, but walked away with something totally different for the final message. I don't feel discouraged by this though. I like that it spoke to me in it's own way. That's what makes it good. You may not enjoy mother!. Could end up walking away thinking it's nothing more than a bunch of pretentious, vulgar trash. But at least it will make you feel something and in a way that only art can.… Expand

1 of 2 users found this helpful11

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7

meydianarizki21Oct 18, 2020

This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Trigger Warning

"You never loved me. You only loved how I loved you." ---mother (Jennifer Lawrence) to Him (Javier Bardem)

Directed by Darren Aronofsky ("Black Swan" and "Requiem for a Dream") "mother!" is possibly the darkest, most disturbing movie I have ever seen.

It is absolutely one of the most affecting.

Reviews have been mixed, to put it nicely. But I think the theme of "mother!" terrifies some people so much that they choose to be perplexed by it rather than allow themselves to even think about what Aronofsky is suggesting.

My take on the film is that it is about God, humans, and our respective relationships with creation and the creative process.

Humans are trying to create Heaven on Earth, and God is....well....God created our ability to create. "mother!" is about the futility of OUR attempts.

It is about nihilism.

It is the abyss, looking back at us.

Congratulations to Darren Aronofsky: He got it on film.… Expand

1 of 2 users found this helpful11

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7

TimewikingOct 30, 2020

The movies was okay. I enjoyed the act and the story but some parts were so obvious.

1 of 2 users found this helpful11

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9

AlbusDBanditJun 24, 2022

This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. While most reviews consist of cheap shots at this movie about its lack of horror as it is classified as such, nobody seems to understand the true meaning behind why this movie was created and why it deserves in my opinion, such a high one. Although I can see many cannot comprehend it, for myself it was obvious the film is a comprehensive allegory for the bible, and poses as what I believe is an anti religion stance. While some say it is a chaotic movie with no direction, when relating scenarios to the bible, it all falls into place. "Him" is God, he creates beautiful work, and brings in worshippers and disciples. The two guests in the beginning are Adam and Eve. You can see as "God" directs them not to touch the glass figure, "Eve" does anyway and drops it. "God" banishes them from the study- or Eden - and the guests hurry out. Then, we can see two brothers - Cain and Able - fight for space in the will. This can be related to Cain's birthright, which he kills Able for and flees, just as the Eldest son kills his brother and flees. All throughout the film, each act corresponds with the biblical timeline and of course ends in Armageddon or the apocalypse, and "god" is all alone with his mediocre creation destroyed because of his need for admiration. This movie is made is a commentary on how if god is in fact real, his actions show that his love for worshippers is artificial, and the only genuine love he has is for the praise he gets.… Expand

1 of 2 users found this helpful11

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10

wkallaoSep 20, 2017

This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Mother! is a film that has been subject to a lot of criticism. Films that are a big metaphor or carry over an allegory are always subject to polarizing reviews. I believe this to be in part by many lazy people passing off half witted ideas as "art", which in turn leads to true art being dumped on. Mother! is not a film for everyone, it really isn't. You will either love the film, or leave confused and resentful towards it. This film is a metaphor for the bible, and the destruction of Mother Earth. Jennifer Lawrence is Mother Earth, her husband is God, Harris is Adam and Pfeiffer is Eve, while their children are Cain and Abel. The glass piece Bardem holds in his office is symbolic of the "forbidden fruit", which 'Eve' ultimately is tempted by. More people flock at the home until a partygoer destroys a sink causing a leakage, indicated the flood that wiped out civilization. But after 'God' writes his new work, symbolic of the New Testament, more people retreat to the home. After a very disturbing and gruesome ending, the home is destroyed, just to be rebuilt again, showing the never ending cycle of the destruction of Earth. The ending is a doozy and as someone who enjoys horror, blood and guts - this will leave you emotionally shaken. I was borderline in tears by how utterly shocking it is. This is mainly a story about how we take and take from Earth, using up all its resources and hardly, or in some cases never, giving back to it. This film does a spectacular job of displaying not only the story of the Bible, but how we as a society are selfish, destructive and undeserving at times. This truly is a work of art and some people will never see it.… Expand

14 of 30 users found this helpful1416

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7

StevieGJDSep 19, 2017

I completely understand why many people hate this movie. There are some truly vile images, extremely disturbing scenes, a very convoluted plot that weaves both a Biblical allegory with the history of time. This film is very hard to watchI completely understand why many people hate this movie. There are some truly vile images, extremely disturbing scenes, a very convoluted plot that weaves both a Biblical allegory with the history of time. This film is very hard to watch and very challenging. It is definitely not for everyone. The film is replete with philosophy, theology with a smattering of Quantum physics. But a movie like that is not going to be entertaining, though there are some odd and humorous moments in the film. This is not a fun journey, but it is intellectually stimulating. One theory of time, from Hawking, is that the Universe constantly expands up to the point when it is at its apex, then collapses back into a particle of infinite mass and density, which in turn leads to the Big Bang and the expansion starts all over again. Take that theory and combine it with the Bible (and numerous biblical references) and current times that seem like we may be close to the apocalypse and there you have this film. Not for everyone. Really.… Expand

13 of 31 users found this helpful1318

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10

CharlieGraySep 21, 2017

This is a good movie after all, you either love it or you hate it. It's not meant for mainstream audiences, it should've been released for selected cinemas, but you got four big names, Jennifer Lawrence and Michelle Pfeiffer, so they thought,This is a good movie after all, you either love it or you hate it. It's not meant for mainstream audiences, it should've been released for selected cinemas, but you got four big names, Jennifer Lawrence and Michelle Pfeiffer, so they thought, we're gonna make money out of this… Expand

10 of 24 users found this helpful1014

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7

GinaKSep 18, 2017

I thought this was a well-made film with excellent performances, especially by Jennifer Lawrence. What this movie is about is another matter. To me it was about art, on the one hand, and fame on the other (I thought about the Beatles and evenI thought this was a well-made film with excellent performances, especially by Jennifer Lawrence. What this movie is about is another matter. To me it was about art, on the one hand, and fame on the other (I thought about the Beatles and even Princess Diana, although she was more a personality that attracted people than an artist). The artist needs to create, and is flattered when he finds individuals who love his creations. His family can easily rank second to the adulation he gets. Unfortunately, especially when an artist is very popular and/or famous, worship can get out of hand because people are attracted to an artist’s work for all sorts of reasons that may or may not have to do with what the artist himself thinks he is saying. Dark undercurrents can be released as they are in this film. The ultimate question is whether a film like this belongs in a mass-market movie theater. I can see why it is not making much money since I doubt if the mass audience has any idea what I am talking about, especially since the mass audience’s heartless and crass adulation is what is being shown so vividly.… Expand

12 of 29 users found this helpful1217

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9

Jess_HillSep 16, 2017

Phenomenal.

But first, a disclaimer: You need to have an exceptional knowledge of the Bible (or at least the broad strokes) in order to 'get' this film. A stunning allegory on the nature of both the divine and humanity, the is an extendedPhenomenal.

But first, a disclaimer: You need to have an exceptional knowledge of the Bible (or at least the broad strokes) in order to 'get' this film.

A stunning allegory on the nature of both the divine and humanity, the is an extended metaphor that is superbly crafted and deeply unsettling. Lawrence and Bardem are magnificent, and the intimate cinematography further enhances the unfolding horror at the centre of the plot. Dripping with symbolism and layered with intertextuality and subtext, this is a thoroughly difficult yet sublime experience. The trailer is both accurate and deeply misleading at the same time, and it is horrifying but this is not a horror film. 8.95/10… Expand

14 of 35 users found this helpful1421

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9

Mike_HunterSep 15, 2017

I'm still processing what I've seen, but a friend gave me some advice to read a post on Bustle. They give you a quick rundown of the different symbolism in the movie. It makes so much more sense to me now, and I'm going to have to see itI'm still processing what I've seen, but a friend gave me some advice to read a post on Bustle. They give you a quick rundown of the different symbolism in the movie. It makes so much more sense to me now, and I'm going to have to see it again. Visceral experience is an overused term, but I can't come up with another one to describe this experience!… Expand

14 of 35 users found this helpful1421

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7

yezoSep 19, 2017

For the record, before I watched the movie, I did not read any information about this movie. And when I watched it, I was confused about what is going on. And I read a few articles and talked to friends and had a better understanding aboutFor the record, before I watched the movie, I did not read any information about this movie. And when I watched it, I was confused about what is going on. And I read a few articles and talked to friends and had a better understanding about the message from the movie. However, I was still confused with many of the details in the movie.
The more I understand the movie, the more unsettling I feel about the characters in the movie, ironically, unlike the mainstream media, I am not concerned about the religion aspect, nor Jennifer acting, but the storylines, and the motivation of the main characters. I am 50/50 about recommend this movie to someone else. Overall, the movie is really disorientating (for my poor intelligent), I would suggest you to read some article about the movie before you watch it.… Expand

10 of 25 users found this helpful1015

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10

imdanielaplinSep 17, 2017

mother! is cinematic insanity and easily the most disgusting masterpiece I have ever had the pleasure to watch. Even if the film doesn't let you breath at times. 10/10.

13 of 34 users found this helpful1321

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9

BrianMcCriticSep 16, 2017

You will leave this film thinking Aronofsky is a genius or a pretentious crazy man, for me it was the former. Don't go into this film looking for any type of mainstream conventional film, if you do you will probably leave early. What we getYou will leave this film thinking Aronofsky is a genius or a pretentious crazy man, for me it was the former. Don't go into this film looking for any type of mainstream conventional film, if you do you will probably leave early. What we get is a master craftsman providing a riveting, thought provoking gem of a film. I love the feel and atmosphere of the first two thirds. You feel uneasy while still being uncertain of exactly what's going on. The final act will likely make or break the film for you. For me my jaw was wide open as I sat up in my seat awestruck and trying to contemplate everything on the screen. No question it needs multiple viewings to get everything, but Darren Aronofsky has given us an immersive thought provoking film you won't soon forget. A… Expand

14 of 37 users found this helpful1423

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7

redjet3Sep 18, 2017

I understand why people would call this pretentious, and if you don't see the symbolism then that's your loss because it brings so much to the story. That being said, while it was more on the chaotic side, I was invested in this movie. ItI understand why people would call this pretentious, and if you don't see the symbolism then that's your loss because it brings so much to the story. That being said, while it was more on the chaotic side, I was invested in this movie. It makes you feel so unsettled and annoyed much of the time -- but that's the point. You wanted to pull certain characters out by the hair just seeing what kind of things Lawrence's character had to experience. Not going to lie, I had to look up what some of the things represented. I wish that I had a better understanding of the bible before I came in because the story is very biblical. To those I saw coming out of the theater saying "what did I just spend my money on", I hope you looked into if after about what it is supposed to symbolize!!… Expand

9 of 24 users found this helpful915

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8

quentntarantadoSep 15, 2017

Wow. If Roman Polanski, Terry Gilliam, and Bertrand Tavernier had an orgy, this would be their bastard child (with no one aware of who contributed the sperm, and who gave an egg). Naturally, I loved it!

13 of 36 users found this helpful1323

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7

TVJerrySep 21, 2017

Is Jennifer Lawrence the titular character? Is it the house? Is mother a symbol of something greater? There will be many interpretations of this film's allegorical intent, but it does feature Lawrence in almost every shot. She lives in aIs Jennifer Lawrence the titular character? Is it the house? Is mother a symbol of something greater? There will be many interpretations of this film's allegorical intent, but it does feature Lawrence in almost every shot. She lives in a secluded country home with her troubled poet/husband (Javier Bardem), but unexpected visitors are only the first twist in this increasingly bizarre and disconcerting trip (and I mean that in the LSD sense). Although I'm sure director Darren Aronofsky meant the occurrences to become increasingly unsettling, after a while the absurdity of the situations became laughable (to me, at least). Despite the elusiveness of a clear meaning, it's an unusual and intriguing cinematic experience.… Expand

9 of 25 users found this helpful916

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10

bri3545Sep 17, 2017

People who don't like this movie are either offended by other interpretations of Christianity, don't like to think, or are global warming deniers and hate the environment. So, basically, a lot of people, but that doesn't meant they're justified.

13 of 37 users found this helpful1324

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8

the_countSep 19, 2017

First and foremost, this isn't a boring film. It is engaging and you will either actively love it, or hate it. It is divisive due to the extremities Aronofsky takes the story to. It is an experience certainly not for the faint of heart, butFirst and foremost, this isn't a boring film. It is engaging and you will either actively love it, or hate it. It is divisive due to the extremities Aronofsky takes the story to. It is an experience certainly not for the faint of heart, but I'd recommend anyone curious see it to make their own mind up. What can be critiqued objectively though is;

The cinematography is outstanding. Matthew Libatique does an excellent job creating a beautiful, thriving environment that slowly evolves through the course of the film. Consistently impressive camera set pieces, with a lot of choreography involved. Bardem and Lawrence put in an incredible performance. Everything you'd expect from the Oscar winning duo, as well as the rest of the star studded cast constantly make their way in and out of the film in rapid set pieces. Coll Anderson and Steve Baine did a brilliant job adding an important layer of intensity through impressive sound design. Much of the credit should be given to sound for providing the lucid nature of the environment in the house. All the visual effects from Protozoa were top notch as usual (see Black Swan and The Fountain), never really taking the FX to the extreme, always leaning on an aspect of magical realism. And of course, much credit has to be given to the incredible casting and stunt team for what must have been weeks and weeks of intimate and crowd choreography. Just as a production, it was really impressive to behold. So love the story, or hate it, but its fair to argue that its a very well made produced film that you certainly won't get bored watching. And an experience worth seeing at the theatre, if not at last to satisfy your own curiosity, but to also support truly original content being produced at a Hollywood level.… Expand

7 of 20 users found this helpful713

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9

FrogacudaSep 20, 2017

A brilliant and disturbing nightmare, rife with allegory and surreal imagery. It focuses on the quiet abuse of marginalization faced by women in domestic roles, but this narrative has other parallels, which, given the surreal nature open aA brilliant and disturbing nightmare, rife with allegory and surreal imagery. It focuses on the quiet abuse of marginalization faced by women in domestic roles, but this narrative has other parallels, which, given the surreal nature open a wealth of personal interpretation. This isn't because the film is pretentious or unclear, but because its story speaks to a basic human truth that manifests in more ways than one. This is not a popcorn horror flick. It's an upsetting, challenging movie, with shades of David Lynch's work. If you're looking to be spooked, go see IT (also a good film). This movie will horrify you (I caught myself yelling at the screen in the theater), but not in the fun scary sort of way many audiences are expecting. Know what you're walking into and take in one of the most interesting movies this year.… Expand

8 of 23 users found this helpful815

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10

MrLissSep 16, 2017

The new film from the Director of cult films "Requiem for a dream" and "Black Swan" Darren Aronofsky — the same twisted to the limit Thriller, with so deep a atmosphere that reduces the cheekbones, with great camera work "by hand" and, unlikeThe new film from the Director of cult films "Requiem for a dream" and "Black Swan" Darren Aronofsky — the same twisted to the limit Thriller, with so deep a atmosphere that reduces the cheekbones, with great camera work "by hand" and, unlike the rest, not the most typical of the Director's script. Maestro Aronofsky praised the work of ordinary people with a difficult fate, by showing the horror, without removing the horror. Here things are a little different. In "Requiem" Darren spoke on the topic of human dependence and weakness, which gradually kill them, "Black Swan" is about the fears and insecurities, dreams and horrors of human life, but "mother!" on the other.

It all starts quietly as always, there's a little family (Lawrence and Bardem), who lives in a huge house. He had long ago working on a new poem, She — settles house, which it restored after the fire that happened at her husband before they met. She works days, working on wall color, arrangement of furniture and other furnishing the home, not forgetting the husband, giving him all the affection and care which she has, but virtually unanswered. And all was well until on the threshold appeared a mysterious elderly physician, bringing with it a series of events, so phantasmagoric, shocking, how can the imagination of Aronofsky. And it allows you very, very much. Essentially the entire plot — from a quiet and relaxing start to an incredible and frightening finale — this is all one big parallel with the plot of the old Testament, the first part of the gospel. Nothing more about the plot I will not say, because then everyone will see his. I can only say that what I saw amazed me.

In the end we have another masterpiece and a living classic Aronofsky, impregnated with his personal unique style and worthy of his previous works. For me "mother!" — best film in 2017 at the time of writing the review. Bravo!… Expand

14 of 41 users found this helpful1427

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10

wbmcelroySep 15, 2017

I can see how some might hate this movie (this has "F Cinemascore" written all over it like few movies I've ever seen) but somehow I still feel shocked by the low ratings. It seems like those breathlessly reporting the delirious, nightmarish,I can see how some might hate this movie (this has "F Cinemascore" written all over it like few movies I've ever seen) but somehow I still feel shocked by the low ratings. It seems like those breathlessly reporting the delirious, nightmarish, completely metaphorical travesty they just witnessed would feel a little more.. I don't know, appreciative? "I just had a singular experience feeling repelled like no movie has ever repelled me..... 3 out of 10." 0 of 10 at least pays proper respect, I think! Love it or hate it, there's no denying that this is a singular work. It feels truly incredible that at 2300 screens, almost everyone in America probably has this playing somewhere relatively accessible to them. Head down the street and have a one of a kind experience!… Expand

13 of 39 users found this helpful1326

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10

ecasarrubiaSep 29, 2017

Unnerving and savage, this movie was one of the wildest experiences I've ever had on a movie theater. Although it's a shame that people didn't support it, my experience certainly benefited from watching it on an empty theater. This movie alsoUnnerving and savage, this movie was one of the wildest experiences I've ever had on a movie theater. Although it's a shame that people didn't support it, my experience certainly benefited from watching it on an empty theater. This movie also has the best performance by Jennifer Lawrence to date.… Expand

7 of 21 users found this helpful714

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10

AkiYoshiSanSep 22, 2017

SIM, é o melhor filme de todos. SIM, é o pior filme de todos. E sim, não há como ser indiferente a ele. Assistam tudo e formem uma opinião concreta e se mantenham firmes nela. Porque gostando ou odiando, vocês estarão certos. Afinal, isso éSIM, é o melhor filme de todos. SIM, é o pior filme de todos. E sim, não há como ser indiferente a ele. Assistam tudo e formem uma opinião concreta e se mantenham firmes nela. Porque gostando ou odiando, vocês estarão certos. Afinal, isso é CINEMA de verdade.… Expand

7 of 21 users found this helpful714

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10

number3Sep 27, 2017

I really enjoyed Mother since minute one. All the cast was great, but Jennifer Lawrence was outstanding.
I loved the cinematography and the end, because it was really unpredictable. This movie is really original

7 of 21 users found this helpful714

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7

FallenStarJul 25, 2019

This movie was a crazy ride.
One thing that it is to be admired about it, is its guts and uniqueness in what it does. It takes you on a spin with various elements that just make you end up being like: What is going on in here?!
And yet itThis movie was a crazy ride.
One thing that it is to be admired about it, is its guts and uniqueness in what it does. It takes you on a spin with various elements that just make you end up being like: What is going on in here?!
And yet it keeps you glued to the screen to find out what's going to happen next.
Great acting overall and the well the movie was shot really took your breath away because it gives you little to no space to breathe. That's something for many movie makers to learn.

The movie is a wide-open interpretation. There are many ways in which you can tackle this movie and experience it. One thing to mention is that this movie is NOT for everyone!
If you want to see something different, crazy and chill, then this one is for you but don't expect a specific something. I doubt you'll find it here.… Expand

1 of 3 users found this helpful12

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8

IAmaMovieGeekMay 31, 2020

Woah! This movie is a descent into insanity, and I loved it! This is one of the most mind-numbing experiences that I will never forget watching.

1 of 3 users found this helpful12

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8

Vjbabu21Nov 8, 2021

Movie with deep meaning and understanding loved the art and creation. Should have shown more how people are destroying nature. But loved the movie none the less.

1 of 3 users found this helpful12

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10

coman4Sep 29, 2020

Emotional, unique, different, uncomfortable. A masterpiece. Regardless of any religious or political beliefs.

1 of 3 users found this helpful12

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10

igorpcNov 1, 2020

This is such a masterpiece. It locks you on screen and keeps surprising with the increase of situations to higher levels of intensity. The concept is amazing and everything is well alluded. Great movie.

1 of 3 users found this helpful12

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9

RpcJun 28, 2021

This movie is an allegorical message on the subjects of over population and global warming. It is one of the most important films that a citizen on earth can watch. Superb.

1 of 3 users found this helpful12

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10

TPF1138Sep 22, 2017

While it might be getting pitched as a horror movie, mother! actually emerges as a kind of dark, twisted, deeply emotional, dreamlike, and surrealist fable, loaded with symbols, and rich in metaphor. An ecofeminist parable of incivility,While it might be getting pitched as a horror movie, mother! actually emerges as a kind of dark, twisted, deeply emotional, dreamlike, and surrealist fable, loaded with symbols, and rich in metaphor. An ecofeminist parable of incivility, violation, narcissism, sacrilege, greed, devastation, carnage and ruin. A unique and thorny masterpiece, that defies categorisation, and should wear its ‘F’ Cinemascore like a badge of honour. A year from now more people will like the movie than do today. In ten years there’ll be people denying they ever didn’t like it.

Oh, and Jennifer Lawrence gives a performance for the ages.… Expand

7 of 22 users found this helpful715

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10

TargayreanSep 15, 2017

This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Mother is not a horror film it is a perfect film. There’s a eureka moment in this film that not many will understand and I expect low ratings. The low ratings are wrong. With that being said it is understandable to be confused by the movie. I was confused until the end and someone else told me. So stop reading and go see it if you haven’t. Watch the movie like a horror movie then be surprised. If you have seen it and want an answer to the question the movie is an allegory to Judeo-Christian beliefs. There is a horror in knowing that people believe in these stories. There is horror in the bleak ending whether it is meant to represent climate change, nukes, or a satanic hellfire type of apocalypse. There are of course many ways to interpret the biblical relationship to the movie with a Noah style flood, the body of christ, Adam, Eve, Kain, and Abel. But the layers of interpretation are what truly make the movie great even with its breaking of horror movie tropes like having more people making more anxiety unlike in most horror movies when being alone is meant to make you anxious. I am interested in seeing reviews from actual religious people because in some ways they would understand the connection better but perhaps are more likely to be offended.… Expand

12 of 38 users found this helpful1226

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10

felipemeirellesSep 26, 2017

This movie is PERFECTLY BRILLIANT!
It makes you think about everything. A truly masterpiece! Makes you think from the first scene until the last, and I assure you, you won't forget this movie for a long time !

6 of 19 users found this helpful613

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10

FrankdnbSep 16, 2017

Pretty much writing this to counter all the **** that is posted by christians that hate this movie because it goes against their beliefs. We don't care what you religious nuts think, stop believing in BS, your god is not real, get a life.

13 of 42 users found this helpful1329

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10

MotherofMothersSep 17, 2017

Came out of the Theater thinking what a pile of crap this movie is. But once i understand the metaphor the director tries to make. OMG what a genius! This movie will definitely kcuf your mind.

12 of 39 users found this helpful1227

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9

MichaelObeSep 16, 2017

A screen adapation of the biblical story of Noah was the first bell that Aronofsky finally broke away from reality. If you expect from him a story like Black Swan or The Wrestler, it will shock you and make you think. Movie should not be missed!

11 of 36 users found this helpful1125

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10

hamidkhbSep 25, 2017

To understand Asonofskys world one has to be familiar with basic philosophy and cinematography. after black swan, I didn't think I could see one other beautiful and better movie from Aronofsky. he proved me wrong. he does anything he wantsTo understand Asonofskys world one has to be familiar with basic philosophy and cinematography. after black swan, I didn't think I could see one other beautiful and better movie from Aronofsky. he proved me wrong. he does anything he wants with the viewer. he doesn't only tells how bad it is with everything that we face in modern time he makes you feel it. Every aspect of it. he makes you understand how is patriarchy changing everything without using every daily cliche that a fan is used to see in every corner and is sick of it. he involves you with his thoughts. The movie is full of references and you have to watch it at least two or three times to understand all of them. This is one the movies that you have to understand in harmony with his other films and try to understand his weltanschauung.… Expand

6 of 20 users found this helpful614

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10

dloprios97Dec 10, 2017

I watched it last night... I just loved it!! Amazing performance, director and meaning. At the end I was like WTH, but then I understood it. How evil are we?... With our home, the house of the open doors....
For those who didn't like it....I watched it last night... I just loved it!! Amazing performance, director and meaning. At the end I was like WTH, but then I understood it. How evil are we?... With our home, the house of the open doors....
For those who didn't like it.... Don't worry.. Just watch a "Fast & Furious" film... Mainstreams!!!!!!!… Expand

3 of 10 users found this helpful37

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8

KaptenVideoDec 28, 2017

A couple's (Jennifer Lawrence, Javier Bardem) tranquil existence in their majestic home is tested when uninvited guests started arriving at the door.

It doesn’t matter if you liked the trailer or not, „mother!“ is so unlike a regular movieA couple's (Jennifer Lawrence, Javier Bardem) tranquil existence in their majestic home is tested when uninvited guests started arriving at the door.

It doesn’t matter if you liked the trailer or not, „mother!“ is so unlike a regular movie that a regular review couldn’t do it justice.

In fact, I wouldn’t even know how to write one about it. So I don’t, and try to jot down my most direct thoughts indeed.

What is „mother!“ exactly, you probably ask while watching writer-director Darren Aronofsky’s latest. Is it just an artsy (horror) movie? A political movie (some notice and center on its alleged pro-environment, anti-patriarchy or anti-immigrants message, for example)? A spiritual movie (biblical or otherwise)?

Based on the comments by the man himself, which I have read online, I get the feeling that it can be any and all of them, depending on what you are prepared to see.

But first and foremost it sure is artsy, so be prepared for 121 minute chaotic joyride which may look and feel like horror but is more about experience than belonging to a genre, or, indeed, telling clear coherent story.

Aronofsky’s works are usually difficult to summarize, and „mother!“ continues the tradition.

I happen to think that „mother!“ is best understood and appreciated as a story of act of creation, be it in the shape of biblical allegory or human being’s spiritual awakening (two versions of the same thing if you ask me).

In social dancing, there’s a saying that woman is the picture and the man is the frame. It’s probably due to my background as a social dancer, but „mother!“ worked for me using that lens exactly.

I saw that act of creation needs both, frame and picture (content). Both are important and can’t exist without each other, both are in some ways necessary to tear down the old and bring in the new. And both can be good or bad, depending on our viewpoint.

If, for some reason, you can’t quite appreciate „mother!“ as spiritual or artsy movie, there’s also other angles to consider, at least for movie lovers. Aronofsky’s latest echoes of different genres, directors and works.

For example, I was reminded of Alejandro González Iñárritu’s „Birdman“ and „The Revenant“, for how the camera is almost always up close and personal, in your face. Or „Tree of Life“ for general feeling and approach to storytelling. Or some southern gothic stuff, even Sofia Coppola’s „The Beguiled“. Or even Michael Haneke’s „Funny Games“, for setup and how it begins to evolve.

But beyond all the comparisions one can come up with, it’s fresh and original work on its own.

The long last chapter – I will call it the creation section – is especially outlandish and defying easy descriptions, for both what happens on screen and how it’s directed. It’s so chaotic, always changing and yet majestically orchestrated that I just can’t find words. Everything is in motion, everything is shattered. It’s cool.

I liked the actors too. Lawrence is in her top form, as somebody living through a personal nightmare, plus camera almost always up close and personal. Bardem stays on the background, he’s cool but not among the most interesting players here.

Then there are intriguing turns from Ed Harris and Michelle Pfeiffer, a long-lost American sweetheart from 1980-90’s. We also see Domhnall Gleeson, Brian Gleeson, Kristen Wiig…

I like the comment of this one critic that „mother!“ is easy to respect and hard to like, but I managed to do both.

It’s too difficult to recommend, but do Aronofsky’s movie need recommending at all? Based on his earlier works, you already know whether you are intrigued to see it or not.… Expand

3 of 10 users found this helpful37

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10

ECGSep 22, 2017

Maybe not for everyone but it's an imaginative, daring and layered film. Great acting from all of the cast and the director has managed to create a film that has shots that I'm still thinking about days later.

8 of 28 users found this helpful820

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9

frankendufSep 17, 2017

Mother! (or, if texting, MOTHER, which abrogates the need for the exclamation...) is the pinnacle in the progression from Pi to Black Swan to the current tragic self-immolation. Indeed, Aronofsky has mastered his Cinema Surrealiste ofMother! (or, if texting, MOTHER, which abrogates the need for the exclamation...) is the pinnacle in the progression from Pi to Black Swan to the current tragic self-immolation. Indeed, Aronofsky has mastered his Cinema Surrealiste of depicting the subjective descent into nervous breakdown, be it from the wellspring of mathematical obsession; cutthroat competitivesness; or the desire we r all afflicted with: love. Here, Lawrence is the Mother, whose shrinking violet repression of social assertiveness builds up to a literally explosive performance. Bardem is the Father who deserves an exclamation for his performance as he once again erects a devilish artist/lover with his superb talent and volatile saucer eyes. Ed Harris is perhaps underutilized as he hacks through a solid performance, however Pfeiffer as his wife is in command of her menacing role that is both cynical and fun (indeed her character serves as a sort of Black Swan reflection to Lawrences perfect routine). And Kristen Wiig is a gem as the archetypal crass publicist who literally takes no prisoners. In the wake of all the other cameo performances on steroids, perhaps the only non-surreal scene has the real-life Gleeson Brothers fighting for family dominance (my $s on Domhnall, one of the finer young actors around....)

In short, Mother! is a claustrophobic whirlwind crescendo that will leave u ruminating on love, passion, obsession, possession and also how many house party guests to tolerate before the **** hits the fan...

HOT TAKES: Cmon, no Danzig on the soundtrack?!- this movie HAS to be the best fit for that anthem (utube it, millenials)
- I guess Lawrence is too young to remember the Rolling Stones "Mothers Little Helper", else she never would have flushed em- off her meds, her delusions propogate like Shutter Island in upstate NY
- Is it me or did this movie turn into Synedoche during the childbirth? - I havent been so confused by a frog in a movie since Magnolia
- O Christ...- i just found out thats what this movies about...… Expand

8 of 28 users found this helpful820

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7

Mihael_Prislin0Dec 25, 2017

A perfect combination of acting and action, but still very creepy! Jennifer Lawrence's performance was breath-taking, and also Javier was pretty good. The story is a little bit floppy, some parts missing, but very intriging!

2 of 7 users found this helpful25

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9

dispencer187Sep 23, 2017

I loved it. This is going to be a very polarizing movie. So much symbolism and metaphors I don't even know where to begin. You just gotta see it to judge for yourself.

5 of 18 users found this helpful513

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10

LucasRibasSep 25, 2017

It's amazing how Aronofsky can always surprise and intrigue in a different way. I was expecting something disturbing to enter the theater, but the surprise was something eminent. This is a subjective, metaphorical and extremely critical work.It's amazing how Aronofsky can always surprise and intrigue in a different way. I was expecting something disturbing to enter the theater, but the surprise was something eminent. This is a subjective, metaphorical and extremely critical work. Many will come out angry, confused or astonished, as was my case. Lawrence who beholds us with his beauty most of the time, shows us a stifling reality not only in a disturbing drama, how the film is treated, but rather the very dilemma of being a woman. You get lost, distressed, trying to catch any loophole throughout the movie, to try to understand which way this work is going. When the spectator finally understands what this narrative is about, the will is to applaud standing. Religion, environmentalism, feminism and even politics, for "Mother" all these subjects can be contemplated. What is most incredible is that the more explicit the theme, related to religion and nature, the feminist and political critique is there, has room for all this in a sea of subjectivity and poetry. A true work of art.… Expand

5 of 18 users found this helpful513

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10

eancerSep 25, 2017

Wow. For all who said that there is nothing new or original in cinema, please go and see Mother. You are going to need an open mind. But the movie is excellent! Those who said otherwise do not understand the movie. It will make you feel!Wow. For all who said that there is nothing new or original in cinema, please go and see Mother. You are going to need an open mind. But the movie is excellent! Those who said otherwise do not understand the movie. It will make you feel! make you think! You are going to say "What The heck I´m seeing". And in a summer with only superhero movies, you need to see it, so they continue doing movies that... that express someone´s voice, and not only repeat the "save the cat" formula all over and over and over and over again.… Expand

6 of 22 users found this helpful616

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10

anotherofyouSep 22, 2017

Not a film for everyone, especially for mainstream audiences who are sensitive to having their comfortable western religious idealism of religion and politics challenged. Overall, the film is an allegory knitted as a dream fever of compressedNot a film for everyone, especially for mainstream audiences who are sensitive to having their comfortable western religious idealism of religion and politics challenged. Overall, the film is an allegory knitted as a dream fever of compressed time, space, and mood. Sure, on the surface it is easy to place the movie into a horror head-trip film, but if one is able to look past all of cataclysm, one will see that Darren Aronofsky meant to make a movie of many layers. The allegory of “mother!” demonstrates that a movie can mean a whole lot without what it means meaning anything. As Aronofsky wrote, “It is a mad time to be alive,”. Adding issues like overpopulation, species extinction, the “schizophrenic” U.S. climate-change policy, ancient tribal disputes, the killing of baby dolphins, politics as sports, and our daily state of denial about all of the above. “From this primordial soup of angst and helplessness,” he wrote, “I woke up one morning and this movie poured out of me like a fever dream.”… Expand

6 of 22 users found this helpful616

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9

LatinCritic13Jan 7, 2018

mother! with an exclamation mark is without a doubt one of the most disturbing films I have ever seen in my life and surprisingly, it’s a genuine fear factor! What makes mother! stand out to be one of the most effed up films ever made is thatmother! with an exclamation mark is without a doubt one of the most disturbing films I have ever seen in my life and surprisingly, it’s a genuine fear factor! What makes mother! stand out to be one of the most effed up films ever made is that this movie goes way deeper in the roots of philosophy, judgement, morality, and of course, social satire. In this film, we’re introduced to these characters, and these people have no names, they’re known as him, woman, man, and mother. They have no backstories at all, as the director probably wants us to find out what kind are the interpretations that he used when creating this madhouse of a film. Everything about this film is phenomenally well directed and this also includes the haunting performances, shaky cinematography, and a terrifying original score. mother! may not be for everybody, but this movie stands out to be one of the most horrifying films ever made and it’s an instant classic!… Expand

3 of 11 users found this helpful38

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10

sobreduardoSep 27, 2017

This movie is just for smart people, if you enjoy movies likes Fast and Fourious or The Conjuring pls stop. SUCH A MASTERPIECE, THIS IS THE MOVIE OF THE YEAR. Everything about this movie is perfect, Aronofsky is a master, oh god. I reallyThis movie is just for smart people, if you enjoy movies likes Fast and Fourious or The Conjuring pls stop. SUCH A MASTERPIECE, THIS IS THE MOVIE OF THE YEAR. Everything about this movie is perfect, Aronofsky is a master, oh god. I really loved this movie.… Expand

5 of 20 users found this helpful515

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10

cls726Sep 23, 2017

This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. If you don't believe in climate change, you'll hate this movie. If you're extremely religious (Christian/Catholic), you'll hate this movie. Otherwise, it's an extremely interesting commentary on religion and our world today. First, you have to understand that the movie is an allegory - essentially a metaphor using biblical references. Jennifer Lawrence's character is Mother Earth. Javier Bardem's character is God. Michelle Pfieffer & Ed Harris are Adam & Eve. All the people at the "party" at the end of the movie represent mankind. It's a story about how Mother Earth gave this beautiful "home" (Earth) to God and he ruined it with mankind. He invited all these people in who didn't appreciate Mother Earth, Earth itself, and all the hard work she put into making it beautiful. She is extremely disrespected by God's "guests" and then mankind ruins the Earth, so essentially climate change. And then the Earth dies and Mother Earth is just done with God and him being so selfish so she destroys Earth, but he never learns from his mistakes and keeps doing the same thing over and over. I went into the movie understanding it was an allegory for climate change & how terrible mankind is to our Earth, but that's it. I have a very basic understanding of the story of the bible and Adam & Eve and all that stuff. From there I understood where it went. I think if you truly get the allegory, you'll like the movie. Yes, it gets outrageous and hyperbolic at times, but that's to show how terrible mankind is to each other, our home, and our Mother (Earth). I think it was a great film and extremely thrilling. I was on the edge of my seat the entire time, and I really enjoyed the commentary on our society today. Any movie that has societal undertones (and political since apparently climate change is political) is going to ruffle some feathers. I will admit the dead baby part was weird. And Kristen Wiig killing people still confuses me. But I think it worked well, and quite honestly scared the **** out of me when thinking about our earth and our existence.… Expand

5 of 20 users found this helpful515

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10

99slSep 27, 2017

mother! is a masterpiece. Everyone's acting is on point, even the extra's. The allegories and metaphors are amazing, it makes the movie better and better even DAYS after you leave the cinema. Definitely a movie to talk about.

5 of 20 users found this helpful515

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8

BeastJ18Apr 23, 2018

Expert direction from Aronofsky, fantastic editing, performances, cinematography, sound design, etc.. all appropriate to the goal of thrilling and telling an entirely different story than the one we see. The biggest downside of this movie isExpert direction from Aronofsky, fantastic editing, performances, cinematography, sound design, etc.. all appropriate to the goal of thrilling and telling an entirely different story than the one we see. The biggest downside of this movie is that there is no real narrative on screen, it is all just vague symbolism. Whereas films, such as The Shining or Mulholland Drive have much more meaning and symbolic stories, while still telling it's own narrative. Mother!'s writing is definitely a bit empty, craving for an actual story to be told.… Expand

2 of 8 users found this helpful26

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7

marcmyworksDec 20, 2017

Well, mother! is a confusing yet simplified allegory for the Bible, God, Mother Earth and how terrible humans are. It mostly feels like art for arts sake rather than be interesting. There could have been a much broader, more elaborate story,Well, mother! is a confusing yet simplified allegory for the Bible, God, Mother Earth and how terrible humans are. It mostly feels like art for arts sake rather than be interesting. There could have been a much broader, more elaborate story, but it seemed to be more run on scenes of characters being terrible and unlikeable and Jennifer Lawrence just being frail.… Expand