Mommy

Directed by Xavier Dolan, "Mommy" is a poignant and powerful drama that delves into the complexities of relationships, trauma, and the fragility of human emotions. The film tells the story of Diane (played by Anne Dorval), a single mother in her mid-40s, who has been left to care for her teenage son, Steven (played by Antoine-Olivier Pilon), after the sudden death of his father. The film opens with a glimpse into the tumultuous life of Diane and Steven. Steven is a 16-year-old boy who has been diagnosed with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and a condition that renders him emotionally volatile. He has been institutionalized multiple times, and his fragile mental state forces Diane to constantly be on edge. Their relationship is strained, with Steven often lashing out at Diane, who is overwhelmed by his unpredictable behavior. On one of her many attempts to navigate the complexities of single motherhood, Diane meets Babysitter, or 'Babys,' (played by Suzanne Clément), a peculiar and eccentric artist who becomes an unorthodox guardian for Steven. Despite Babys' lack of experience in childcare, she forms a unique bond with Steven, sensing that there is something inherently broken within him. As the story unfolds, it becomes evident that Diane is still reeling from the loss of her partner. The absence of her late husband, Alain, leaves a void in her life, and her relationship with Steven suffers as a result. Babys, with her free-spirited nature and artistic inclinations, offers a much-needed respite for Diane, providing a glimmer of hope in an otherwise desperate situation. However, Babys's unorthodox methods quickly raise concerns among the community. When Diane's neighbor, Jean (played by Patrick Huard), becomes aware of Babys's involvement in Diane and Steven's lives, he offers his help as a substitute teacher to Steven. His overbearing nature and strict parenting style, reminiscent of Diane's own parenting methods, initially clash with Babys's more laissez-faire approach. As tensions escalate, it becomes apparent that each of these characters is struggling to cope with their own emotional baggage. Diane's fragile mental state is exacerbated by Steven's increasingly violent behavior, causing her to confront the deep-seated wounds she has been trying to ignore since Alain's passing. Babys, with her quirky demeanor and creative pursuits, is forced to confront the harsh reality of her inability to provide a stable environment for others. Meanwhile, Steven's emotional fragility is laid bare, revealing a child desperate for human connection and acceptance. His complex behavior patterns and explosive outbursts serve as a tragic cry for help, highlighting the devastating effects of neglect and trauma on a child's psyche. Through the characters' tumultuous relationships, "Mommy" skillfully explores the delicate balance between compassion, understanding, and accountability. As the story hurtles towards its poignant conclusion, the film raises vital questions about the responsibilities of caregivers, the fragility of human emotions, and the resilience of those who have faced unimaginable adversity. The performances of the cast are outstanding, with Dorval bringing a raw, emotional intensity to the title role, while Pilon delivers a heart-wrenching portrayal of Steven's pain and vulnerability. The chemistry between the three leads, particularly the bond between Diane and Babys, is palpable and authentic, capturing the messy, often beautiful complexity of human relationships. Ultimately, "Mommy" is a searing, emotional critique of our societal expectations and the way we fail to support those struggling in the midst of trauma and adversity. In its unflinching portrayal of Diane's shattered world, the film poses a haunting question: what happens to those who are left to face the ruins of love and family on their own?