#TIFF14: “MOMMY”

Review by Justin Waldman for Mr. Will Wong

French-Canadian Filmmaker Xavier Dolan in his quick rise to the Cinematic Elite, has  redefined the way people look at Cinema and does so once again in his latest effort, Mommy.  At the center of the Film is Diane (Anne Dorval), her Son Steve (Antoine-Olivier Pilon) and their Neighbour Kyla (Suzanne Clément).  Diane, struggling to keep it together herself picks Steve up from a Government Institution and this proves to be quite the challenge. Together, she and Kyla try to teach Steve the rules of how to behave and interact in society.  Steve is abusive, volatile and temperamental in his outbursts.

Part of what makes Mommy so unique is its insistence on breaking the rules, resembling a Film shot on a  Cell Phone. This style works extremely well for Dolan because it allows the Audience to focus entirely on what is taking place on-screen – no distractions – and the brilliant performances. It is difficult not the affected by this true Masterpiece.  A Festival Must-See.

Mommy screens Tuesday, September 9, 2014 9:30 PM at Princess of Wales Theatre and Wednesday, September 10, 2014 12:00 PM at TIFF Bell Lightbox Cinema 1.