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Existential crisis, sarcasm, dry wit and soured relationships collide inAlbert Brooks‘ charming comedyMother. The director uses his signature style of comedic delivery and sentiment to explore the delicate nature of a mother’s bond with her son. Brooks has been called “The West CoastWoody Allen.” It’s easy to understand the comparison between the two prolific filmmakers. Afterall, they each write, direct and star in their own films, their stories are grounded and contemplative, and they’ve each voiced characters in animated features (AntsandFinding Nemo).
However, the nickname over simplifies Brooks’ work and minimizes the originality of his creative style. InMother,Brooks uses his talents and skills — honed and perfected from over a decadebehind the camera— for an in-depth, humanized reflection on growth, redemption and healing.
Motherplot
Strugglingsci-fiwriter John Henderson (Albert Brooks) finds his life at an impasse following his second divorce. While battling writer’s block and having no luck in the dating pool, he comes up with the unique solution of moving back in with his difficult and disapproving mother (Debbie Reynolds). John’s search for meaning and resolution leads to an insightful reexamination of his strained relationship with the woman who raised him.
The Review
Albert Brooks’ knack for juggling dryhumoramidst emotionally complex themes is on full display inMother.The simplicity of the film’s story is mirrored by the simplistic artwork on its cover. The black and white image of a man kissing the forehead of his mom as she looks away, seemingly disinterested, perfectly encapsulates the heart of the story.
Whether its a midlife crisis or the need for emotional connection, self-reflection and the search for meaning are common themes in Brooks’ filmography. In the role of John Henderson, Brooks utilizes his pitch perfect delivery ofsarcasmand wit to examine a strained relationship. He manages to elevate mundane topics such as cheese prices, the effectiveness of freezing food and underwear shopping into laugh-out-loud moments through his quippy and charismatic delivery.
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There’s nothing groundbreaking about the structure or ideas presented here; however, the film succeeds on the shoulders of Brooks’ charm andcharisma. Debbie Reynolds also turns in a solid performance as the titular, overbearing and often demeaning matriarch of the family. I found myself frustrated and annoyed with her character often, which I realized meant she was succeeding in the role. The film’s conclusion feels oddly abrupt and doesn’t quite work. It felt as though Brooks knew how he wanted to wrap up the story, but wasn’t sure how to adequately weave it into the plot.
The Special Features
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The release features brand newinterviewswith writer/director/star Albert Brooks and co-star Rob Morrow. Critic Carrie Rickey provides an insightful essay and, of course, the originaltrailerand a teaser directed by Brooks himself are also included.
Would I recommend this purchase: Yes.
Is it worth a blind buy: Absolutely. It’s an easy to watch, sentimentally impactful comedy.
Motherwill release in the Criterion Collection on 4K on August 27th, 2024.
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Joshua Ryan
Lead Film & TV Critics Editor
Articles Published :322
Born and raised in Central Florida, Joshua Ryan has harbored a love for cinema since the earliest years of his childhood. Through endless hours of watching Turner Classic Movies, especially the works of Alfred Hitchcock, his passion for film and film criticism grew. As an adult, he channeled that passion into a career as the editor and lead critic of FandomWire’s film and television department.
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