Superb acting.
Mommy
Grade: B+
Director: Xavier Dolan (Tom at the Farm)
Screenplay: Dolan
Cast: Anne Dorval (Miraculum), Antoine—Oliver Pilon (Laurence Anyways)
Rating: R
Runtime: 139 min
by John DeSando
“We still love each other, right?” Steve Després (Antoine-Oliver Pilon)
“That's what we're best at, buddy.” Diane 'Die' Després (Anne Dorval)
Mommy is a memorable Canadian film that shows the intense love (see above) between a mother and her ADHD son. If you allow some interpretive license, it also shows the subtly violent aspect of the relationship. If you need to familiarize yourself with the disorder, see this film; if you want to experience superior acting, see this film.
In either case, Steve’s severe attention disorder causes havoc with the institutions set up to help and a loving mother, Diane, torn by her devotion; neighbors; and her growing sense of impotence to corral this almost-always-out-of-control teen. The film’s emphasis on the boy’s uncontrolled trash-mouthed and physical exuberance (often with creative energy) forms the central conflict for those entrusted with his care.
In the “future” of 2015, Canada has changed its laws to make it easier to institutionalize children with mental problems. For Steve, this incarceration is now a possibility that seems to mitigate ever-so-slightly his erratic behavior. Director Xavier Dolan expertly paces so that we have relief from the hyperactivity and grow to like the young man.
Criticism could be leveled at Mommy for its histrionics and sentimentality. So be it. Otherwise, his mother valiantly loves him as best she can, reminding me of the dad and son conversation in Boyhood, where the Ethan Hawke character advises that we all are just doing the best we can getting through life.
Suzanne Clement plays middle-aged neighbor, Kyla, with vulnerability and a growing understanding of Steve. Together with the two other principals, you’ll not see a better ensemble this year.
"There are many positives with ADD, including a surplus of ideas, creativity, excitement, and interest which accompany this kind of mind." - Sari Solden
John DeSando, a Los Angeles Press Club first-place winner for National Entertainment Journalism, hosts WCBE’s It’s Movie Time and co-hosts Cinema Classics. Contact him at JDeSando@Columbus.rr.com
