REVIEW: “Mothers’ Instinct” (2024)

As a cinephile with over three decades of film-watching under my belt, I can confidently say that “Mothers’ Instinct” is a gripping suburban thriller that showcases the stellar performances of Jessica Chastain and Anne Hathaway. The film, directed by Benoît Delhomme, masterfully explores the complexities of friendship and motherhood amidst a backdrop reminiscent of a Hitchcockian setting.

As a devoted cinephile, I can’t help but express my enthusiasm for “Mothers’ Instinct”, a gripping suburban thriller masterfully directed by Benoît Delhomme. The unparalleled duo of Jessica Chastain and Anne Hathaway grace the screen in this film, each embodying their characters as neighbors, best friends, and mothers whose bond is tested to its limits after an appalling incident occurs. Anders Danielsen Lie and Josh Charles deliver solid performances in supporting roles, but it’s Chastain and Hathaway who truly steal the show with their captivating chemistry that makes the movie’s flaws seem almost insignificant.

Delhomme’s movie, “Mothers’ Instinct,” draws from an idea that Hitchcock might have used himself. It’s a reimagining of Olivier Masset-Depasse’s 2018 Belgian thriller, which was based on Barbara Abel’s 2012 novel of the same title. The script effectively manipulates our understanding of characters, but it reveals flaws as plot inconsistencies emerge, particularly in the movie’s later stages.

In the vibrant, tree-lined suburbs of the ’60s, I found myself living next door to my cherished friend Alice (Chastain), with our near-identical two-story homes nestled perfectly on well-tended lawns divided by a single long green hedge. Our sons, both 8 years old, were inseparable, often engrossed in their adventures together while we mothers managed our homes. Our husbands, diligent workers, would depart early each day, leaving us to maintain the domestic front. It was a picture-perfect slice of ’60s life.

As a movie enthusiast, I found myself deeply moved by the story where my relationship with Celine took an unexpected turn. The life-altering event occurred when poor Max, Celine’s son, tragically fell from their home’s upper balcony and lost his life. From my yard, I could see him, but unfortunately, I couldn’t reach him in time to help.

Afterward, Celine deliberately keeps her distance from Alice, causing Alice to grow increasingly concerned that Celine might hold her responsible for Max’s demise. However, matters become even more complicated when Celine displays unusual affection towards Alice’s son, Theo (Eamon Patrick O’Connell). Simon (Lie), Alice’s husband, dismisses it as Celine dealing with her sorrow. Yet, Alice remains skeptical, and this doubt fuels a growing tension between the once inseparable friends.

In this film, there’s a clever twist that leaves you guessing: who’s losing control – Celine or Alice? Delhomme provides compelling evidence to make us doubt both women, creating a suspenseful back-and-forth that keeps you on your toes until the climax. Conradt skillfully employs societal expectations of the era to misdirect our gaze and conceal the true direction of the plot. While it doesn’t always come together as planned, following along is definitely an engaging ride.

Despite some drawbacks, the movie is burdened with noticeable inconsistencies and illogical sequences. Important aspects of the narrative appear to serve only temporary purposes before being discarded as the story progresses. This recurring flaw hinders the potential greatness of this otherwise compelling and aesthetically pleasing psychological drama. However, Jessica Chastain and Anne Hathaway’s performances keep it engaging. Their talent ensures that every scene they are in is captivating. In this film, they continue to elevate whatever they touch.

2024-11-27 18:56

REVIEW: “Mothers’ Instinct” (2024)

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