I read this quote this morning about the new horror picture call Mother, directed by controversial filmmaker Darren Anofsky:
"As Halloween approaches, a reliable season for horror, never has a film so sharply divided audiences and critics as Darren Aronofsky's MOTHER! But the most remarkable thing is how a film that's so deliberately difficult to watch was made at all, and at Paramount no less."
~Industrial Scripts
Personally, I have not seen the film. But I read some reviews and a film synopsis this morning, Folks were tossing around words like surreal, allegorical and metaphorical. I, for one, think that's a good thing. All too often, screenwriters and movie audiences complain about the lack of originality in today's film market. However, films like Mother beg the questions:
1) Should films be difficult to watch?
2) Should audiences paying good money to be entertained be mentally challenged or made uncomfortable by the subject matter?
3) Should the perspective audience do their homework before laying down their hard earned money to see a film that's difficult to watch, or for that matter, a piece of trash? And remember, one person's trash is another one's treasure.
What say you S32 dwellers?
1). YES. "Difficult" can make an audience confront an issue. It can incite public discussion and debate. And what should and should not be, that's a matter of opinion. I have a much harder time watching other subject matter. With "Mother!" there are themes at play. It is allegorical (apparent in the poster, yes? Lol!). Book of Genesis stuff. If you are uninformed going in, plus bad marketing didn't help, I can see why this film is polarizing. However if you look at this film—as intended, as symbolic—the "horror" that happens symbolizes many things — chaos, religion, the twists of zealots and worship, gender issues, our mistreatment of earth—"mother earth." The film is also a metaphor about the environment. Lots going on here! Quite the artistic feat! I would not be surprised if this film is nominated for awards. ;)
2) HELL YEAH! Absolutely. Is that not the purpose of film? To reflect, express, question, challenge, celebrate and comment upon human existence? Issues? Life? Share different perspectives? Get people to think?! Jolt? Inspire? And entertain??!!!! Etc? Lol! ;) And paying to see a film is a personal choice. Period. No one is forcing anyone to buy a ticket.
3) And, YES, do some legwork before seeing a film. Be informed. 'Cause that's on you, dear audience. Information is readily at your fingertips. ;)
To add, sometimes film leans more artistic. Filmmakers, actors, writers, directors are artists, are they not? Kubrick anyone? LOL! Personally speaking, I can't stand "A Clockwork Orange." That's just my opinion. I liked "Mother!" much better. Also, considering "Black Swan," I had an expectation for "abstract" from Aronofsky. Anyway, I don't see the "shock" that Paramount produced this film. Clearly any loss at the box office is easily made up for by their blockbuster films. A smaller artistic film is usually more appreciated over time. I can see it gain viewership and praise 'on demand' or in rentals now after further explanation from the director and acclaim from critics. What's unfortunate here and was quite damning was the false marketing. Whoever handled the marketing for "Mother!" really messed up. ;)
Beth:
Thanks for your thoughts.
Just wondering... Did you even see this film, Phillip? If you haven't... Aronofsky is pretty clear in the film, gives plenty of hints... With character names like "Mother" and "Him," you quickly realize this is not a typical, straight up horror but rather something else entirely. :)
Beth:
As I stated in my original post, I have not seen the film. I did read a synopsis of the story and noticed right away that his characters had generic names like man, woman, him and mother. I think the story sounds very intriguing and unsettling. I also read some critical reviews. I'll definitely watch this when it comes on pay-per-view. I think thought provoking material like this is very important to the screenwriting and filmmaking art form, where truly original, groundbreaking work should be encouraged and celebrated. I just finished a second draft of an optioned screenplay, where the subject matter is very controversial and takes on an established police department for their treatment of one of their own. I wonder if it will ever see the light of day. However, the director is very excited about this project. Films like Mother give me some small hope of my recent work getting a shot.
Ah, I missed that in your post, Phillip. Sorry, I'm on the go and on my phone-- that's always a risk for me to misread something. Lol! Well... then upon your viewing, I look forward to your thoughts on the film. ;)
And you're welcome! My comments are just for anyone. Just throwing out an enthusiastic response to your questions. ;)
Best of luck with that option. Sounds great! I'll keep my fingers crossed for you. ;)
THe irony here is Aronofsky is an Atheist. Don't know if he is satiring religion. The dude is obviously a scholar and big A list actors want to work with him.
Anyways wish he just direct a Comic book movie and win fanboy audiences. Imagine him directing the Joker or batman movies? Crazy!!!!
Aronofsky directed "NOAH" so he's well versed in religious films and themes. It would be great to see his highbrow aesthetic applied elsewhere. Perhaps an in-depth origin story about the Joker?! Lol! ;)