I’ve yet to see the new movie Motherhood, starring Uma Thurman, so I’m trying to keep an open mind.
But going by the somewhat blah response amongst some blog reviewers, I won’t rush to recommend it for Mother’s Day viewing.
Instead, I’ve compiled a list of some of my favourite films that deal with the many sides of motherhood in a truthful, funny, interesting or unique way.
Most of these films you won’t want to see with the kids around, some not even with your own mum!
But if you’ve not caught any of these yet, definitely put them on your watch list.
1. Juno
Ellen Page’s wise-cracking teen gets a handle on a surprise pregnancy in this indie box-office smash also starring Jennifer Garner.
2. Secrets & Lies
Marianne Jean-Baptiste plays a black daughter who traces her white birth mum (Brenda Blethynn) in Mike Leigh’s funny, dysfunctional family portrait.
3. Imitation of Life
Old-school weepie with Lana Turner and Juanita Moore as the black maid whose daughter rejects her to pass for white.
4. Terms of Endearment
Debbie Winger and Shirley Maclaine star in the ultimate mother-daughter struggle in this classic ’80s tearjerker.
5. Eve’s Bayou
This sensuous gothic tale is about fathers and daughters but don’t miss Lynn Whitfield’s stunning turn as the betrayed mother.
6. Almost Famous
Frances McDormand’s straight-shooting mum puts the fear of God into the rock stars leading her son astray.
7. Volver
Pedro Almodovar’s haunting tale features Penelope Cruz as one hot mama embroiled in a family mystery.
8. The Incredibles
Holly Hunter’s super-flexible heroine raises three kids, rescues her hubby and kicks major butt.
9. Sherry Baby
Maggie Gyllenhall gives it her all as a recovering addict trying to reclaim her life and her daughter.
10. Knocked Up
A hilarious take on accidental motherhood with Katherine Heigl and Seth Rogen as co-parents on a very bumpy ride.
11. Hideous Kinky
Kate Winslet shines as the freewheeling mum who seeks personal fulfillment, often at her daughters’ cost.
12. Central Station
A motherless boy finds companionship with a lonely old woman in this poignant road movie.
