Mom Mom

Mom + Mom is an Italian film from 2018 that addresses the tender and somewhat complex topic of parenthood and same-sex relationships, seen through a lens of heartfelt intimacy, authenticity, and warmth. The film starred Linda Caridi, Maria Roveran, and Andrea Tagliaferri, each delivering remarkable performances that contributed to building a compelling narrative that invited audiences to empathise with the characters and their quest for the joys of motherhood.

The film tells the story of two women, Karole and Ali, portrayed by Linda Caridi and Maria Roveran respectively, who fall in love and decide they want to have a baby together. Set in modern-day Italy, both characters face a national legislation that does not recognize same-sex couples' right to access assisted fertility treatments, a scenario that adds a level of intricacy and conflict to the narrative. This journey of love, bravery, and challenges embarks the couple on a roller coaster of emotions, where they navigate societal norms, personal doubts, and uncharted territories to fulfil their shared longing for a child.

Karole, a lively and playful woman, works as a carousel operator, living a life full of colour, freedom, and emotion. On the contrary, Ali, an introverted girl working at a bookshop, prefers a more tranquil and organized pace of life. Despite their contrasting characteristics, the chemistry between these characters is beautifully realized, forming the crux of the narrative. The film delves into the nuances of their complex and intricate relationship dynamics, involving the viewer in their personal growth, struggles, and aspirations.

Paired with the film’s central theme of starting a family is the essence of the couple's relationship, beautifully portrayed through their daily life filled with laughter, disagreements, shared silences, and stolen glances. The movie captures the universal reality of any relationship, irrespective of sexual orientation—the highs and lows, the poetic and the mundane, the grand and the trivial. Far from a stereotypic depiction of same-sex relationships, Mom + Mom portrays the couple's relationship with a rare authenticity that makes the characters deeply relatable and their story profound.

Directorial accolades go to Karole Di Tommaso, who has woven the storyline with sensitivity, maintaining a gentle balance by generating humor, showcasing everyday life, and casual conversations. This allows the narrative to flow organically, without excessive melodrama, while subtly addressing the issue of same-sex parenthood. The film's screenplay is grounded in reality, making it authentic and relatable.

The naturalistic tone of the film is beautifully enhanced by the cinematography and art direction, wonderfully capturing the vibrant essence of Italy, its rustic simplicity, and the charmingly chaotic lifestyle of Karole and Ali. The characters are skillfully developed, each with their distinctive traits and imperfections that add depth to their personas.

The performances by Linda Caridi and Maria Roveran are commendable. They poignantly portray the emotional intricacies of their characters, bringing to the screen a charming combination of tenderness and resilience. Their chemistry is palpable, their love clear, but it is their quiet strength that impresses the most, as they stand firm against societal judgments and exploitative infertile treatments systems.

Andrea Tagliaferri takes on a compelling supporting role in the film. His performance adds another layer of complexity to the narrative while reinforcing the film's focus on the concept of family and the different forms it can take in today's society.

Overall, the film ‘Mom + Mom’ serves as a heartwarming exploration of love, LGBTQ+ parenting, and the challenges faced by same-sex couples in contemporary society. It is a testament to the power of love and the lengths that people will go to make a family. With respect and sensitivity, the movie gives its audience a glance into the reality of gay parenthood, circumventing clichés and inviting reflection on widespread attitudes and policies. Despite the gravity of the issues it tackles, the film remains an upbeat, engaging, and sincere story with plenty of humor and heart.