Mommy

Xavier Dolan's 'Mommy' is a striking, yet polarizing film that dives headfirst into the chaos of familial relationships. While its ambition is commendable, it occasionally stumbles over its own emotional weight.

Motherhood in Turmoil

'Mommy' tells the story of Diane, a widowed mother played by Anne Dorval, who struggles to raise her teenage son Steve, portrayed by Antoine Olivier Pilon. With a history of behavioral issues and violence, Steve's turbulent nature forces Diane to confront her own challenges as a single parent. Enter Kyla (Suzanne Clément), a mysterious neighbor with her own traumas, who offers an unexpected lifeline to this dysfunctional family. The film’s unique storytelling, particularly its use of a 1:1 aspect ratio, sets it apart visually, but also creates a sense of confinement that mirrors the characters' struggles. This exploration of motherhood, mental illness, and connection unfolds over 138 minutes, but not without its pacing issues.

Performances That Challenge

The performances in 'Mommy' are undeniably one of its strong suits. Anne Dorval gives a raw and powerful portrayal of a mother on the brink, while Antoine Olivier Pilon effectively captures the volatility of his character’s mental state. However, Kyla, played by Suzanne Clément, while integral to the story, feels a bit underwritten, leaving her character's motivations somewhat vague. This imbalance can detract from the overall emotional climax the film aims for, as viewers may crave more depth from her character. The chemistry between the leads is palpable, but it is clear that some supporting cast members were not utilized to their full potential, making me wonder what more could have been brought to the table.

Bold Choices, Mixed Results

Dolan's direction in 'Mommy' is both bold and experimental. The decision to shoot in a 1:1 aspect ratio serves to intensify the emotional experience and highlight the claustrophobic nature of the characters' lives. The cinematography is vibrant at times but can also feel overly stylized, risking overshadowing the rawness of the narrative. Some transitions and dream sequences, while visually compelling, come across as self-indulgent, pulling focus from the central storyline. Pacing is another concern; at nearly two and a half hours, the film drags in moments that could have benefitted from tighter editing, potentially alienating viewers looking for a more straightforward narrative.

A Rollercoaster of Feelings

Watching 'Mommy' is an emotional ride, but it often feels like it’s trying too hard to evoke feelings. There are moments of genuine heartbreak, particularly in Diane's struggles, but they are interspersed with scenes that can feel overly long or repetitive. The film oscillates between moments of intensity and stretches of boredom that disrupt the flow. It's like a rollercoaster that sometimes gets stuck at the top, leaving you hanging for too long. While the emotional scenes are impactful, the film's insistence on lingering in uncomfortable situations may frustrate those looking for resolution or relief.