5 Movies That Embrace the Realities of Motherhood

Motherhood is complex. It embodies a mixture of joy, messiness, and harsh realities. Often, mothers navigate these ups and downs without a platform to express themselves. Questions arise: Are other mothers feeling this too? Is anyone’s experience universally applicable? Fortunately, there are outstanding films that delve into the myriad emotions and challenges of motherhood.

Tár

In Todd Field’s "Tár", Cate Blanchett portrays Lydia Tár, a conductor and mother obsessed with perfection. During a pivotal scene, she confronts her adopted daughter’s bully. This incident reveals her power but also reveals the vulnerabilities within her persona. In another instance, her partner, Sharon (Nina Hoss), realizes their connection with their daughter, Petra, differs significantly from her other relationships. This realization shifts their dynamic profoundly.

Parallel Mothers

Pedro Almodóvar’s "Parallel Mothers" follows two women, each in disparate lives, as they give birth simultaneously in the same hospital. Penélope Cruz and Milena Smith play the roles of these mothers. Over the year that follows, their parenting journey unfolds, revealing their intertwined lives. The film explores their struggles to determine their family needs while addressing themes like nature vs. nurture and the complexities of familial bonds.

The Lost Daughter

Maggie Gyllenhaal, in her directorial debut "The Lost Daughter", deeply explores motherhood’s darker facets. Based on Elena Ferrante’s novel, the film presents a poignant examination of ambivalence towards young motherhood. It captures feelings many mothers experience but seldom articulate: motherhood can be challenging and chaotic.

Terms of Endearment

"Terms of Endearment" dives into the challenges of raising several children with an unsupportive partner. Intersecting dynamics include a judgmental mother who thinks her daughter deserves better. The film portrays how women strive to excel, yet face days marked by perceived failures as mothers and grandmothers. Accepting these struggles is essential since perfection is neither attainable nor enjoyable.

Daughters of the Dust

Directed by Julie Dash, "Daughters of the Dust" is celebrated for its lyrical portrayal of Gullah culture. The film spans generations of women embarking on a journey of tradition and identity. Central to the narrative are women determined to preserve their roots and heritage in a whimsical, moving exploration of family ties.

Earlier SSP told about 5 must-watch movie musicals.