Mother! reviewed by Mark Kermode

[@akort7276]

I saw this movie last night.......and I don't know what else to say about it.

[@xavierbrown1654]

Same...what the hell can you say?

[@Onmysheet]

Same for me. Aronofsky can be a right pretentious guy sometimes but he sure knows we're to place a camera.

[@Dinckelburg]

Oh hi exclamation mark

[@CinemaRescored]

Catháin Ó Danachair Oh hey Catháin Ó Danachair, what's up?

[@jamieb0tc]

This movie needed more Tommy Wiseau.

[@captainfreedom7182]

I did not watch it..I did not watch it...I did naaahhht!

[@K-J-B]

I want a Kermode uncut on the new Twin Peaks!

[@foxybingo1112]

Kyle Barratt Yeah

[@shaunpearson7905]

Isn't he Jewish?

[@foxybingo1112]

Shaun Pearson No he's quite a regular churchgoer apparently. Surprising since his favourite film is The Exorcist

[@colinthedogfromspaced9365]

What year is this? ARRRRRRRRGGGGGGGGGHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH

[@sophiew1967]

???why does that matter his cultural background ..All that matters is that he's an excellent journalist and always gives thought provoking film reviews & has been well respected for doing so since the 80' s here in the UK .

[@231-isntthisalotoffun4]

I loved it. I staggered out of the theater in a daze, and to be honest, felt a bit traumatized at first. So I can understand why some people don't like it. However, I think the kind of vicious anger and hostility this movie has inspired in some people is really remarkable.

[@icarus8471]

The film is an intense experience. Cannot believe they had the guts to make it.

[@cinemar]

There's nothing brave about millionaires making a movie.

[@thegirlinquestion]

this movie is a luciferian's wet dream

[@EclecticoIconoclasta]

It is amazing that it was made by a mainstream Hollywood studio. At the end I think it suffered a little bit from an excess of imagination but in general I see it as a good challenging movie.

[@JackMShep]

This undoubtedly shows Aronofsky's talent as a filmmaker whilst also being very self indulgent and repulsive. Never have I been so in awe of a filmmaker and simultaneously so disgusted by one

[@briefvapez7562]

Aha, perfectly put.

[@adamtaucher8766]

JackMShep And that my friend, is the point. He wanted you to feel that way.

[@JackMShep]

starkingbiker yes, you’re right, we should not have a strong reaction to a film, because that’s not “grown up”. I apologise

[@nickd7036]

The film is technically accomplished and knows how to get under your skin in effective ways, but it's also, especially towards the end, as subtle as a jackhammer.

[@aderemiporsche]

@@JackMShep If you think Darren Aronofsky is self-indulgent, then you have probably never seen a Lars von Trier film. Trust me on this one.

[@BIGBIRD208]

This is the film: Javier is God, Jennifer Lawrence is Mother Earth, Ed Harris is Adam, Michelle is Eve. Their 2 sons are Cain and Abel. The canaanites return and break the sink causing the flood which is the story of Genesis. Everyone leaves after the flood. Javier finishes his poem aka the New Testament. The people flock to the teachings claiming it’s a calling. They try to frame the New Testament and argue who gets to frame it which is a parallel to Islam and the conflicts between who carries the word of God. More cultures invade, worship false idols, wars break out and then God creates his only son and it’s sacrificed by the very people he shared it with. Mother destroys her home aka revelation and God starts over again.

[@jameslappin9896]

BIGBIRD208 beautifully put!

[@extremetee]

Nice

[@hajhaj99]

..... Or it's Jennifer Lawrence torture porn, from an undisciplined, over indulged, privileged voice.

[@larrenlistens]

Nailed it!!!

[@BIGBIRD208]

@@mja844 Christ is God or part of the “body” of God and God never wrote the old or New Testament. Man did.

[@nicholasdickens2801]

It's a really good film. I liked it. As melodramas go this is really good. It's a film that is basically a nightmare. It's stunning how it held my attention. It's very good. It is most certainly not the sort of film that Hollywood would ever touch. It's lovely that someone will take a chance on this.

[@acidarrow]

I learnt that DIY is really hard.

[@MrBendybruce]

This movie made me feel things I had felt when I was young, growing up in a situation I had very little control over. So it felt very uncomfortable, but evoked strong emotional responses that continued to build to almost nightmare like levels. I liked it a lot.

[@gremsa]

Yeah that's what i felt watching the film

[@RokinLee]

Not really a first date movie then..

[@00sinders]

It absolutely is. If you both love it or both hate it you're onto a winner! I'm still trying to get my head round it though and it's been two days since I saw it.

[@EclecticoIconoclasta]

If you are a guy you might give your female companion the feeling that hooking up with a guy might bring her oppressive situations in this patriarchal world. The film could not be more feminist from my point of view. All the actions comes from the "mother´s" subjetive point of view. If you are a both female couple, on the other hand, you might have chosen the best movie possible...you know what. Not either since in general this film in Rotten tomatoes is clearly seen as "not recommended for mainstream audiences". From that point of view it might be a good choice for a movie after you have been going out for a while and she or he likes at least some art house or arty cinema. Otherwise you might get a reaction like that person leaving the cinema before the end or saying that it is the most stupid and annoying movie ever. Something similar to giving acid to a person who has never or only once smoked marijuana. In that sense preparing them for a very bad trip which they are not ready or prepared for. From a point of view of going out with a possible romantic partner that person might end up thinking you are a weirdo who enjoys doing horrible cruel things for pleasure

[@valdezlopez]

I actually liked the movie. No. I think I loved it. It's an unsettling experience, for sure. But I sort of... Admire it.

[@cobrakaicyberdon]

Javier Bardem is god, Jennifer Lawrence is mother earth, Michelle Pfeiffer is eve. Ed thingybob is Adam (his rib is poking out when hes in the bathroom) then there 2 sons turn up, cane & Abel. That is what I got from it. It's definitely a take on the bible. Yes a fantasy film.

[@pauloneill2538]

So it's about the bible eh. I guess that means those critics who are derisive of it, can be called bible bashers. Oh the irony of it.

[@jaimepe4765]

It's not about the Bible. It's an environmental movie... you just got lost in the allegory.

[@stevef4010]

That's a change. Ed Harris is usually God in most movies.

[@JavierSly]

And all the people that get in the house depicts the seven deadly sins

[@JavierSly]

Also It has different interpretations, it could be understood as a feminist movie, with the whole concept of people making decisions on her body.

[@TH-zg3fh]

Can’t help but feel overwhelming shameful after watching it. True genius.

[@polkalnt]

I watched this movie in the in -flight entertainment system. The moment the flight landed I had to rush to the smoking room and smoke 3 cigarettes one after another. I didn’t care about Mother Earth any more. I felt my brains would spill out. To my credit I managed to collect my bags and reach home

[@lisquidsnake]

I saw it and was transfixed by it. So many layers to it. As Mark said it needs time and space to really get a sense of it. No one can do what aranofsky can do and I mean that as a compliment.

[@lisquidsnake]

Boston Black you mad bro?

[@lisquidsnake]

Boston Black did you want to have a conversation about how right you are? You didn't need to comment if thats all you wanted haha I appreciate that we have different opinions about this film tho. It's all good.

[@lisquidsnake]

Boston Black we have different opinions clearly and that's fine. If you think it's simple I respect that. I think there's a few more layers to how the story is told, how the shots are framed, the images are used, and even the casting of the movie. I've only seen it once so i figure it'll take me time to dissect and thoughtful reflection (space) to unpack the movie. Have a good weekend m8

[@adamtaucher8766]

Boston Black Really, well there are multiple ways of interpreting it. It can be seen as a religious allegory, or as a metaphor for an abusive relationship, or as a metaphor for fame, or false idol-ship, or.... Do i need go any further. I would say it is multi layered pal.

[@adamtaucher8766]

Boston Black The director himself said this can be interpreted it a million different ways. For instance, a story that follows the woman of a man who becomes obsessed with fame that he is willing to do anything for his admirers, even giving up his family by sacrificing his child against his wife's wishes. That also ties into false idol-ship. These people come in and worship the ground this man walks on. A man they don't even know. That can also be tied into God and his followers. They worship his ideals and beliefs so much they are willing to commit acts of violent carnage for him. See, it is deeply layered.

[@bluesjazznotes9436]

This film stuck with me after leaving the movie theater and I need to see it again as did like it a lot, as accurately Mark says a vast part of filming this was around JL to see things from her perspective, the film has so many metaphors and it will stay with you if you decide to watch it.

[@WarlordRising]

This film is right up Kermode's alley. Surreal, nightmarish, and filled with religious allegories.

[@felyxmillicent6538]

Insane film. I loved it. It's one of Aronofsky's best.

[@ThousanWhite]

I agree with everything said. It's a really messed up movie but it grows on you and sticks with you and in your mind for days and weeks.

[@ToddLamming]

The "!" is to set the tone for the film. It's not just "mother" the word. It's mother! It's angry. It's immediate. It's shouting.

[@elfsieben1450]

The title "mother!" with its commanding tone and the adressee written in diminiutive letters is very telling. This is a film about exploitative relationships, but on many levels at once: An artist exploiting a muse. A celebrity cult exploiting the human need to belong. A deity exploiting human sacrifice. A fandom exploiting an other person's creativity. Egotism exploiting Altruism. Humankind exploiting Mother Nature. Male envy exploiting female fertility. Religious fanaticism exploiting human spirituality.

[@thehitherto5348]

So far I've prefered Aronofsky's more polarizing movies like The Fountain and Pi (never cared much for Requiem for a Wrestler). If Mother is as divisive as reviewers and viewers makes it out to be chances are I might like it.

[@username4570]

I tend to agree and I very much loved mother !

[@akulaa4853]

"never cared much for Requiem for a Wrestler" Mmm well what about White boy rick Below Fortune cookie Jackie?

[@lordmunch1]

The Fountian was the most expensive music video ever made.

[@atenakehnaton3965]

Personally I found it boring and predictable.

[@stephenotoole6633]

Perceptive review

[@murrvvmurr]

Well I thought it was an allegorical tale about the hunger of some for fame and the consequences of that hunger on those who just want a quiet life, but love a creative person. The baby thing made me think about how Hello! Baby pix are a place where a child can be torn away from the mum and sold to the mob, and how everything about an artist life is geared toward the quest of recognition by strangers, commenters, who come into your life judge ignorantly all you say or do and take possession of anything not bolted to the floor....and then eventually even that (such as kinky pix from your phone hint hint). For me this is a film about fandom and oppressive admiration. Invasive curiosity. Murderous, cannibalistic creativity. The need for creation consumes all as it generates the fanatical worship by those who seek meaning , value the words of strangers over that of their kin, because they have none of their own. This movie is up there with les enfants du paradis for me, for now.

[@p0tatob0ys]

In that case it wasn't an allegory, as what you describe is literally what is portrayed in the film. An allegory is a story that has a hidden meaning.

[@julesli]

Is there any intrinsic value in presenting an idea via allegory, if the process of unpacking the metaphor brings no new insight to the idea? The film grasps at so many different themes, but did deciphering the frankly quite overt symbolism and absurdist archetypes really give viewers a deeper or at all nuanced understanding of basic christian theology, the pitfalls of organised religion, overpopulation, environmental issues, etc.? For me, this is why the film comes off as pretentious. The themes sound big but the message is painfully simple and thinly-veiled.

[@elfsieben1450]

It's a great, visceral, surrealistic trip. Don't overthink it, just get on the bus and enjoy the ride. This is an intense nightmarish horror flick with a great, slow-burning build-up and a very rewarding showdown spiralling faster and faster into insanity. The cinematography and editing (including sound editing) are overwhelming.

[@elfsieben1450]

It does shed a grim, darkly satirical light on a lot of topics, though: society and artist, artist and muse, man and woman, religion and mankind, mankind and nature, and how each one exploits and mistreats the other.

[@Fragenzeichenplatte]

"did deciphering the frankly quite overt symbolism and absurdist archetypes really give viewers a deeper or at all nuanced understanding of basic christian theology, the pitfalls of organised religion, overpopulation, environmental issues, etc.?" Of course not. Why would you? What a strange expection. This isn't a historical documentary. You are not supposed to learn about climate change.

[@EclecticoIconoclasta]

I see it as a good movie in general but I would not rate it as a masterpiece because I also see that movies overdependent on allegory tend to get corny and forced in order to fit that. Also I find it annoying to have to know about the christian story of Cain and Abel. Maybe he should have just focused on the mother earth and feminist point of view which can be understood by wider cultures and non christians

[@BradHominem]

Exclamation Mark Kermode

[@catsrule1343]

Damn it you beat me to it

[@bunnyfeet123]

Simon's smug look when he shows up Mark's mistake is priceless.

[@burlhorse61]

they've got a weird chemistry-that makes it fun to look at.lol

[@happierquotes7400]

love to see it

[@burlhorse61]

@@happierquotes7400 yh-trying to find a download with english subtitles online

[@_.-_Crimpy-_..-.]

When I watched this film, I had a similar feeling to the feeling I had when I watched martyrs. Bleak and brutal and jarring (maybe even a bit traumatising), but I wouldn’t say I hated it or anything. Quite hard to describe. I agree that it was impressive for achieving what it did.

[@Relugus]

The allegory is painfully unsubtle.

[@andreaw4320]

who says it has to be subtle though.

[@GoToHellHermen]

You'd be surprised... the person I watched it with did not get it AT ALL.

[@unipachu]

The Bible allegory isn't so obvious for people who aren't christian/haven't red the Bible.

[@valdezlopez]

Was about to say "what does "Mary" has to do with a Genesis story"? ... ...And then Mayo comes to the rescue.

[@kzinful]

.." Mother, you had me but I never had you.." Winston the imperial Walrus

[@charmtrap]

Can't wait to see it. Any time the undifferentiated mass is whining about "pretentiousness", it's a pretty good indicator that it's a film worth seeing.

[@LarryPokeTrainer]

Hopefully seeing this tonight. I'm very excited. The suuuuper divisive reviews have me intrigued.

[@briefvapez7562]

Agree with Kermode entirely (for once!). Thought it embodied Arononononofskiiies work entirely and thought it felt entirely pure to his intentions. It may seem massively on the nose if you're at all aware of any of the theologies it so obviously draws from, but I nevertheless admired it. Was glued to the screen from start to finish and the way it breaks over you in it's final 30 minutes is EXACTLY why I pay to go to the flicks.

[@489Acresofwheat]

It seems Aronofsky has realised that biblical stories are far more archetypal than literal

[@LewesMusic]

he is telling his life, an intellectual doing everything to please his fans, even sacrificing his family life... to the point of having a film in the film (she reads his poem and has a vision of the house burned down and being regenerated).

[@MagicSkeleton]

Excellent review and I completely agree with the more distance from it the better it gets in your mind and the more you discover as you turn it over and over. I 'enjoyed' it at the time but thought it was unlikely I'd see it again, but two weeks on now I think I would watch it again and maybe even buy it.

[@EthanS1481]

I completely agree. This movie was really hard to watch, but the more time passes by - the more I am intrigued by it... I see myself seeing it again in the near future...

[@johnnyd.5466]

I had a very similar reaction to Kermode. I was definitely rattled walking out of the theater, but when I woke up thinking about it the next morning I knew I had witnessed something special. That said I can't really fault the negative reviews. The movie is such a subjective experience that almost any reaction is warranted. Pretentious? Yes, but at least it's ambitious. Not just another tired Pirates sequel. The biblical allegories make a strong cultural statement. The literary value of the Bible as an ever-shifting mirror to society has been lost, because half of the Western world takes it all literally, and the other half finds it idiotic drivel. Aranofsky mines it for deep symbolic meaning. In Noah too, but not as well as with mother! What a ride!

[@elfsieben1450]

Well put! I agree.

[@battlep0t]

If you have at the very least a basic knowledge of the bible, particularly Genesis, you should be able to work out the movie quite easily.

[@chrismccartney2780]

From what I got it was a modern adaptation of the early part of the old Testament. Jennifer Lawrence was Mary and her husband is (an unorthodox version of) God and the Doctor and his wife are Adam and Eve and the home is the Garden of Eden. The heart shaped object that God keeps in his office is the forbidden fruit (apple) and the sons who soon turn up are Cain and Abel. One kills the other one. Later, Mary falls pregnant with Jesus, who is innocently killed. God sees the world for how wretched it has become and seeks to start again, from the beginning...

[@rexmundi2237]

In ten years time this film will probably be reassessed as a cinematic masterpiece. It is very much in the tradition of over-the-top late sixties and seventies psychological dramas with elements of of the supernatural and horror, like 'Repulsion', 'The Tenant', 'Psycho', Italian shockers like 'Suspiria', 'The Devils', and 'Rosemary's Baby'.

[@parrogakaparadise9477]

Rex Mundi I agree! Great comment. I love all those films and I too had them in mind watching this.

[@parrogakaparadise9477]

Rex Mundi Esp. Suspiria and Rosemary’s Baby. Also The Exorcist and The Omen.

[@homelesshannah50]

Do NOT sing the praises of the movies of that CHILD RAPIST Roman Polanski

[@Oceanmachine27]

I LOVED this movie. But at the same time, I completely understood how someone might despise it.

[@2008israelramos]

I think the hallmark of a good movie is if stays in your psyche and you can't stop thinking about it for days. This movie is a piece of fine art.

[@Louis-Martin]

i thought it was great but i hate it, never felt so disgusted and damaged from a film, wouldn't recommend to anyone without thick skin, felt physically sick yet the symbolism is fantastic

[@andyg9835]

I don't normally like Darren Aronofsky films (The Wrestler aside), but 'mother!' is something else. The trademark extreme close ups and over-the-shoulder shaky-cam are still relentlessly employed, but at least here the directional style makes sense helping to create a claustrophobic atmosphere. The film starts calmly and then gradually ramps up into utter chaos as it passes through three distinct acts, which appear to be a quite cleverly written parody of Genesis, the Passion and the final bits of Revelations. At last, we have a horror film that has a real script (rather than just a clown with pointy teeth, for instance) and what a difference it makes. Aronofsky takes every effort to disorientate and confuse, before bringing it pretty much all together at the end. If there is a bugbear then I'd suggest that Jennifer Lawrence was a bit weak, especially when juxtaposed with Michelle Pfeiffer, but that's probably being a bit picky in what was a totally madcap and engrossing film. 4/5

[@sleeperbloke]

I'm in the same boat, not normally an Aronofsky fan but you've just sold me on seeing it.

[@autumninapril5382]

SaucyNinja007, you know, I saw this movie after a long day of work in a tired mood, which are not the best conditions for figuring out an allegory, and I'm not a religious person, even though obviously I'm familiar with the most re-told stories of the Bible. I'm not embarrassed to say that the Bible resemblance only jumped at me when the screening was already over. While seeing it, I was stuck in the belief it was a statement about both the creation and reception of art, about fame, about an artist and his inspiration, the dichotomy of being an invisible, guiding phenomenon in the artists' mind which he can twist and abuse at will, as well as not only a real, breathing person, but even the person to bear the artists child (literally as well as figuratively). When the house gets crowded and an old man crashes there, Lawrence tells him: "This is my house!", to which he replies: "The house belongs to us all". Yup, I thought, makes sense; she, in love with the artist, wants his work to carry a certain intimacy. There's perhaps a sense of entitlement in that: By inspiring the art herself, she gets some sort of claim on it. However, in order to live up to the expectations of our capitalist system and because you need something eat, the artists needs to present his work to a wide audience, thus drawing in a crowd of people, who begin abusing his art for their own end, twisting it as well as the artist himself, and, eventually, completely demolish what Lawrence held so dear to her heart. Then there's the whole rabbit hole of fame, the addiction we all have towards being admired and how one can lose not only himself, but the person who loves him the most in the process. In the end, the artist sucks the life out of his inspiration, her baby gets killed by the mob, he rips out her heart to keep as some sort of trophy before starting all over again, with another muse. tl;dr: Was completely oblivious to the religious allegory all the way through. Movie still worked for me. "Most predictable, simple message imaginable"? Don't agree.

[@elfsieben1450]

Very well put! This movie works on different levels at once, and the common thread running through all of them is exploitation: Adoration vs. creativity. Artist vs. muse. Celebrity cult vs. empathetic community. Christian God vs. His creation. Egotism vs. agape. Humankind vs. Mother Nature. Male envy vs. female fertility. Religion vs. humanity.

[@CinemaRescored]

Arronofsky should've directed the RoboCop remake as planned.

[@DeeNeuro]

At about 6:40 he is discussing other horror directors and me mentions what *sounds* like Riguerra del Otto? I clearly don't have it right. Does anyone know to whom he is referring?

[@notabot835]

Ruggero Deodato

[@AHALambda101]

Just saw it No idea what I watched frankly but I loved it!

[@nohabekind]

That movie was my experience with a narcissistic girl 10/10

[@charliepanayiotou4305]

Me watching Mother!: Hmmm Darren Aronofsky seems to have turned into Lars von Trier Me seeing the character names in the credits for Mother!: Oh god, he HAS turned into Lars von Trier

[@weitzen]

I was wondering when someone would make the Lars Von Trier comparison ..... this film reminded me of Antichrist ! Still haven't made up my mind how I actually feel about that one yet, and it'll be the same with Mother! Will never forget either of them though for sure!!!!

[@DSkehan2004]

Only on this messed up movie. Not in the rest of his work

[@thomasminglis8977]

mother! is a brilliant movie I watched it not knowing anything about it. Then I learned about all the multilayered metaphors in it and watched it again. If you like a good horror movie this one is the best and it's sooooo much more. One thing I don't get is why this guy called it a dark comedy, I saw nothing funny about it. The pace, rhythm, acting, storyline, and cinematography are phenomenal.

[@rasikasilva5172]

I just saw the movie as, with Aronofsky being the metaphorical director he is, a parable on the trials and tribulations of childbirth. The house being the womb, Jennifer Lawrence as the expectant, gleeful but wearisome mother, and everyone that enters the house being projections of the intrusions and pains that women experience during that time. But I think I've only just touched the surface. Only the director knows his own vision.

[@laurakane2252]

Not sure how anyone could laugh at this movie. Unless of course they identify with the lunatics breaking into the home and behaving like lunatics.

[@dosnostalgic]

I haven't laughed at serious film so much since Ultaviolet.

[@JMUDoc]

If the artist has to *tell* you what their art is about, they have not done their job. My reaction to this film was "... eh?"

[@euanwakefield3550]

Couldn’t take this seriously. Laughed out loud in the cinema at the crowdsurfing baby scene and people turned around aghast at me lol

[@CinemaRescored]

The house is Earth, not mother Earth. Lawrence is mother Earth.

[@ShreeNation]

This movie made me feel so guilty that I hated how much I loved it.

[@dolevamitai1301]

At 6:45, after Kermode says Lynch and Cronenberg, what is the name he mentions?

[@aderemiporsche]

Ruggero Deodato. An Italian film director.

[@PauLtus_B]

I do like the camerawork in that clip. It almost seems like it's stuck on her head.

[@adicakes]

PauLtus B yeah strangely its already got a name; headcam. A revelation, ironically, it is not

[@PauLtus_B]

+adicakes I'm not talking about the POV shots btw, but the camera aimed at her face.

[@CharlieTooHuman]

Kind of like Son of Saul, but the camera does occasionally cut away to another shot, but it usually pointed from her pov.

[@deadlypalms]

I saw it and the audience went BANANAS. Some walked out. Contagious laughter spread throughout, followed by manic rage by a few people in reaction to the laughter. Quite a wild ride on all accounts.

[@treebear8364]

I seriously don't understand people who walk out.

[@EmeraldZoneNetGMG]

The same happened when we went to see Tree of Life. Crazy times.

[@elfsieben1450]

Both films, "mother!" and "Tree of Life" are allegorical, atmospherical, cinematical, philosophical, psychological, spiritual and symbolical masterpieces in their own right.

[@DSkehan2004]

@@treebear8364 you have to see it if you want

[@hanshotfirst1138]

Shot on Super 16, but I haven't seen any film screenings. Shame.

[@worstxb1playertylerteehc635]

I thought it was a cross between ''MISERY'' and ''The Shining'' But it felt like I was in a REALLY VIVID Nightmare. Or a VERY BAD Acid Trip. I Respect them, the Director and Cast that is at even attempting to make this Movie.

[@Ralphu75]

Saw this yesterday.....very much a Marmite movie. Those that enjoy Aronofskys style and his desire to really push his audience will love it. Ohers will absolutely hate it. For me it was good, not sure it was great, but that's the point of these movies. To stir the viewers into debate.

[@solsdadio]

I’m curious after this review.....however learning that he was responsible for Noah hasn’t done the chances of me actually watching any favours.

[@MatthewGClarke]

I saw this today and very much 'enjoyed' it. In case no one else has mentioned it, the sound mixing and editing is incredible.

[@elfsieben1450]

It is great in every aspect.

[@lukepalmer4200]

Had a few walkouts and then half the screen burst out laughing at the end in Glasgow this evening. Still not a clue on how I feel about it.

[@veryvarley6706]

The payoff where the story is revealed is just not worth it for me. It is interesting, but that is just about all, the juxtaposition of the two main protagonists is too unbelievable. You can read a whole bunch of things into the meaning, but the reason for that is not something clever in my opinion, it is down to how vague the actual story is.

[@rorrt]

I finished watching the film a little over 2 hours ago now. And i'm glad i didn't trust my first impression. I was actually laughing out loud at the... Scene nearish the end. When JLaw falls asleep.. Trying not to spoil the film. I was like "WOT THE F**K M8!?" this is batshitbananas!!! BUT on reflection. Its not his best work. I think its maybe tied with Noah for me. The Wrestler is maybe my favourite.

[@markjenkinson3093]

loved this movie. Its the Bible reimagined in 2 hours. I was interviewed for telly upon leaving the theater because people were walking out scratching their heads. someone shouted over me that they wanted their money back. Ed Harris and Michelle Pfeiffer were Adam an Even. Their sons arrive and one kills the other. Even at one point when Michelle Pfeiffer shows up you see ed Harris in the bathroom with a massive wound to his torso (Adams rib?). the device / crystal in 'His' room is the apple from the tree of knowledge that gets destroyed. When there was a party and the pipes starting spraying is Noah's flood. and it quickly fast tracks to the World Wars. Then even the child being allowed to be sacrificed. Absolute genius film making. Him is God, and she is Mother Earth. so Allegory is a perfect description.

[@Celestialrob]

Brilliant review Mark. I struggled with this movie and now want to see it again. Daring, work.

[@andrewdeen1]

i need to see this again, only this time ill go in prepared for a black comedy

[@bonobobob]

It could be about the way the universe repeats to infinity as well as the god and old and new testament stuff.Admirable film.

[@samuraisoul1043]

This is a great movie far removed from Noah I feel.and it's something you will love or hate what I have noticed is that people who review movies and don't spoil them find it hard to do with this .simply it's a dark study of human nature and the barbaric roots to which we go to create .that's what you'd say without spoiling it but that's hardly a good explanation .it's very honest and uncomfortable .but very thought provoking . films like this are necessary to balance out the enjoyable know what you are getting action . horror and comedy movies.and Lawrence is supreme in this .

[@omega2k1969]

Ok, so what is the yellow powder? I think I know. If you know, please frame it so I understand. Please explain.

[@zhayes01]

I agree with your points. I had several walkouts in my theater. But the funny thing for me was they left before the crazy 3rd act even started. I guess they got board. It's definitely a slow burn at the beginning.

[@benevolentfar]

havent seen it yet, but could it have been the intention of the director to have many different subjective viewer experiences by having many objective themes laced within it? seems as though you can almost learn about oneself through this movie, but only when compared to others' experience.

[@elfsieben1450]

True.

[@worstxb1playertylerteehc635]

Oh and can someone answer me these questions please ? 1. What was it that blocked the Toilet ???? And 2. Was that the last image of his memory of his family begging for help in a house Fire thats frozen in time in that Diamond ???

[@joseyjnr2814]

I really want to see this movie but I have read too much about it and don't think I will be able to handle it. I don't normally spoil movies for myself but I was curious to hear what all the fuss was about

[@markwright8629]

My tickets booked. Hope it's good

[@terrysilvester4720]

Its incredible

[@Tomanista]

I kinda hated this movie, but I want to see it again.

[@fireworkboy]

Just watched it. For me, it's an awful and brilliant allegory of what narcissistic men do to those who love them.

[@Focaminante]

I have been talking about this film with my girlfriend all day. She liked it (not too much), I absolutely detested it. Now, I can listen to someone talking about all the symbolism in it as if it’s something new, or even well made. I can insist on the fact that this film does not have any metaphors, only caricature, to no avail. But to hear Kermode comparing Aronofsky, the biggest fraud in “art film” after Lars von Trier, to the great David Lynch, is something I cannot endure. I just had to write a KZbin comment. There.

[@vicmaserati6148]

I loved the movie anybody who gave this movie a 1 star review are either people who only care about fast n furious movies and transformers I love movies that don't hold your hand and leave you talking about days after u view it

[@MLElf]

Just watched this! My lord it was amazing!! Spun me out so bad, almost had to walk out not because it was bad but because it was so intense , life changer :)

[@DSkehan2004]

A life changer?

[@chrishiggins7166]

The film’s issues are the pacing & confusing lack of storytelling, however the film is A stylish, intriguing, well acted & well directed horror film. (70%) (3.5/5 stars) (positive)

[@TheSashaGreyExperience]

What happened to Mayo's face?

[@agraciotti]

hahah now THAT's a review! love you Mark!

[@LewesMusic]

the couple was not "uninvited" the husband invited them behind her back...

[@elizagaskell7957]

Movie was weird. I get it that it is a interpretation of the Bible and the many symbolisms scattered about it. But it doesn't take a genius to eat a sandwich. If you love this film - then more power to you.

[@wacokid30]

Him is God and Mother! is mother nature. The house is Earth and how God abandons his first love to be intrigued by Man and Woman even though they are destroying his first creation.

[@AChickandaDuck]

“Relentless, ridiculous, garish, disgraceful, disorientating, delirious … and the more I think about it, the more I find in it.” Humanity.

[@krissymarklewis1793]

agree totally with this review. Definitely one to think about.

[@xandrias6411]

First time watching it. I hated it. It stressed me out so extremely. My heart was racing the entire time. I wanted to stop watching half way through. And then I started listening to the explanation. And it blew my mind. I am constantly feeling sorry and angry about what we do to the earth. And I love Mother Nature so much. And to rewatch it not even 24 hours after the first time, it broke my heart. Realizing how much mother loves Him but he loves the idea of being loved and not her. To watch everything we do to the planet happen in a span of minutes. I love this film. And it will be okie if my favourites until the day I die. I will always be thinking about this film. And I WISH. I could sit down and talk to the director and just talk about all the different meanings. This film is so beautiful and hideous at the same time. And I’m so thankful this was created. So so so thankful

[@razzle1964]

Yes! Not just me, then. I think I got far too emotionally invested without first picking up on all the underlying themes & I detested it (my interpretation was mainly God/Earth, etc). I'm not quite ready for a rewatch.

[@speedberg]

I've just seen this film. Despite how it's been promoted in it's trailer and poster I think it can only be called a horror in loose terms so anyone expecting lots of jumps and cheap scare tactics will be disappointed (like the bloke sat next me!). It's one of those films that masquerades as a puzzle that does not offer any clear answers as to what it means. I enjoyed it and have my own idea as to what it's about but I'm sure that will differ to that of the next person (especially to that of the bloke sitting next to me!). Although the Jennifer Lawrence's character is presented as the protagonist and virtually has all the screen time I thought this was a bit of a trick as I think the Javier bardem's character actually is.

[@speedberg]

AverageOwen I considered him as a poet/a creative which in some respects is similar to God - they create worlds along with the people that inhabit them. In order to create new pieces of work creative people often have to cast aside or dismiss earlier works which is sort of what happened to Jennifer Lawrence's character - her story had ended and she was replaced by a new muse.

[@nicholasdickens2801]

Speedberg It also speaks to the lack of creativity of the artist. But I got that parable as well. He's like Frankenstein in that he abandons his best work... his marriage.

[@HereComesPopoBawa]

I don't know, I associate the term "horror" with deeply unsettling existential dread, rather than some corny boogyman BS. So mother! sounds like a good horror movie to me.

[@PetePuebla]

What's Mary have to do with Genesis?

[@horrorstateofmind2724]

The move was awesome and can disturb a individual with OCD or social anxiety

[@charliedawson6318]

For the longest time I just assumed this was based on a play.

[@raxr5705]

Finally saw it thought "this is what the big controversy was about?" I did find the movie intriguing, the performances great, but I just couldnt get into it emotionally. I mean, of course I sympathized with Mother herself, but the surreal nature of the film disrupted me from fully engaging with it, because I was thinking to myself "okay - what might that mean?", instead of feeling the appropriate emotions - even the scene which apparently was "crossing the line" for Lawrence felt too allegorical to make me feel any sort of emotions in either way. Honestly, I actually didnt spot the biblical allegory being So direct, and even now the realization of how many interpretations the story might have somehow Soesnt make me think of the movie as some genius work. Then again, Arronofskys work has always puzzled me, so I might have to revisit it, like I did Fountain...

[@92ninersboy]

Here's a much better film with a similar perspective - Ingmar Bergman's "Hour of the Wolf" - this is demented allegory that doesn't try to hit you over the head with it.

[@notimportant3686]

i got a very self-indulgent director feeling from this movie.... like i was getting to see something cringily pretentious....... it felt like a film maker screaming in my ear "look, this is art, and i'm the awesome guy who made it" wouldn't recommend, unless you are rather daft and won't be able to pick up on this.... then it could be quite enjoyable

[@VerneditheSnail]

I don't get why people like 2017 IT so much... it is garbage! I was hyped initially and read the King novel, then when I saw the film I was very disappointed and considered the 90s miniseries more passable.

[@elfsieben1450]

2017 "It" did get the teenager part right but screwed up on the clown scenes. The 2019 follow-up was a total mess in both plot and tonality. They both pale totally in comparison to masterpieces such as "The VVitch", "mother!" and "The Lighthouse".