Films that explore relationships resonate with audiences because they are relatable. This relatability facilitates a strong emotional connection, prompting viewers to reassess their relationships critically. “A Mother’s instinct” seeks to achieve this very effect.
Shattered Harmony: The Dark Turn of Idyllic Life
At its core, this film is about two close friends who lead simple lives in a cozy neighborhood. Their story turns dark, disrupting their peaceful existence and challenging their friendship. As the logline notes, “Alice (Jessica Chastain) and Celine (Anne Hathaway) live a traditional lifestyle with successful husbands and sons of the same age.” Life’s perfect harmony is suddenly shattered after a tragic accident. Guilt, suspicion, and paranoia unravel their sisterly bond.
A Descent from Grief to Madness
The harrowing event that transpires serve as a catalyst for a profound transformation. It is also a demarcation point that shifts the focus from friendship to motherhood. It becomes deeply unsettling; the insidious crawl of grief to madness makes one look closer at those within their circles. Could this happen to anyone, anywhere? This leaves the viewer with cautious discomfort.
This rich subtext of the film explores the complexities of motherhood and its transformative power in a woman’s psyche and identity. The story is propelled by one mother’s devastating loss. This drives her to an unnatural and obsessive desire to maintain her identity, as she has defined it as a mother. This concept amplifies society’s perception of mothers as nurturing, loving, and protective figures. It presents an even darker point of contemplation. What if these same driving forces are corrupted, leading to something dark and twisted, ultimately resulting in an unsettling nightmare?
Mother’s Instinct: When Maternal Instinct Becomes Perilous
Most films in the thriller/horror genre with motherhood as a premise and focal point zero in on the mother’s failure to grasp her instinctive role, portraying her as a danger to those she is meant to protect. She becomes the archetypal “bad mother.” In these films, mothers are depicted as violent and menacing figures, straying from the traditional. But what if the mother is not dangerous because of a lack of maternal instinct but rather because of an overpowering drive to care for her child? This drive becomes unnatural and threatens those around her. This is the subject explored in Mother’s Instinct.
Ultimately, the screenplay asks whether motherhood can trigger a primal urge that leads to heinous crimes. This gripping psychological thriller explores the intertwining concepts of survival and individualism. Its disquieting themes will undoubtedly leave viewers deeply unsettled, possibly even recoiling and retreating inward. This is a testament to Barbara Abel, the author of the source material, and the creative team for adapting this story into such a chilling feature.
A Masterclass in Disturbance
The actors deserve praise for their expert portrayal of disturbed characters, each bringing unique authenticity to the screen. The film is also commendable for its attention to detail regarding technical aspects and visual style. Every element, from impeccable costume choices to the set design, adds to its overall impact.
The premise is startling—something to sink one’s teeth into. However, the resolution may be too bitter of a pill to swallow and incredibly hard to believe. It will have you denouncing its plausibility. The monstrosity of it all is astounding.
If you want a peaceful film with a peaceful ending, this is not it. Instead, it may make you angry and frustrated. You might even throw your shoes at the screen in protest.
Reframing Motherhood: A Psychological Thriller That Resonates Beyond the Screen”
This psychological thriller invites deeper analysis and contemplation, presenting an original perspective on a well-used theme within the genre. Its exploration of a flipped concept of motherhood will leave you apprehensive long after the credits roll, making it highly recommended.
Uncut Diamonds 