Otherhood

Otherhood is a delightful comedy movie from 2019 directed by Cindy Chupack, best known for her writing and producing role in the widely popular TV series "Sex and the City". Completing the star-studded cast are Angela Bassett, Patricia Arquette, and Felicity Huffman, who deliver remarkable performances in this warm and humorous portrayal of motherhood, tracing an intricate landscape of familial bonds, friendship, memories, and the caring heart of a mother's love.

The plot of Otherhood revolves around three middle-aged women and long-time friends, Carol (Angela Bassett), Gillian (Patricia Arquette), and Helen (Felicity Huffman). Despite living in different suburbs, they are tightly-knit, relied on each other in the past for bringing up their sons and still continue to connect for moral support as they grapple with the realities of their empty nests. But when Mother's Day goes by without a single acknowledgment from their sons, the three ladies decide to break out of their usual routine, and set out to reclaim their importance to their adult sons by ambushing them in their respective cities.

Carol, the sophisticated, trendy woman, is the mother of Matt, who lives in Manhattan and is trying to make a name for himself as a successful novelist. Gillian, an emotionally sensitive and loving woman, is the mother of Daniel, who dabbles in advertisement design in Indiana. And Helen, the straightforward, sometimes overly critical woman, mothers Paul, a successful business executive in Chicago.

Their impromptu visits, however, do not exactly go as planned and result in a range of hilariously awkward and emotionally touching situations. As they journey deeper into their sons' lives, they begin to understand their roles as mothers in a new light and reassess their identities beyond parenthood. The trips turn out to be as much about self-discovery and redefining their life paths as they are about mending their bonds with their sons.

As viewers, we follow these strong female leads on their sometimes humorous, sometimes bitter-sweet quests, resonating with their journey of self-rediscovery into middle age. In many ways, their stories are a celebration of motherhood and female friendship. At their core, they proclaim the strength and resilience of women who Chart new paths in life while navigating the complex terrain of their relationships and personal identities.

All three lead actresses deliver exceptional performances, their characters crackling with authentic humor and emotional depth. Angela Bassett, as Carol, illuminates the screen with her classy charm and caring heart. Patricia Arquette, as Gillian, taps deep wells of emotion in her portrayal of a mother trying to reconnect with her son. And Felicity Huffman, as the no-nonsense Helen, delivers some of the film's funniest lines with deadpan precision. Director Chupack ensures that the comic elements don't overshadow the emotional gravitas of each woman's journey, a balance that's masterfully maintained throughout the movie.

Director Cindy Chupack has delivered a refreshingly sincere comedy-drama that effortlessly transitions between poignant moments of self-realization and hilarious episodes of misadventure. The tonal shifts between the three women’s experiences provide a well-rounded representation of life's many ups and downs, while also keeping the viewers intrigued. The movie is beautifully paced and visually warm, with appealing shades of a typical 'feel-good' movie.

Otherhood is a tribute to the extraordinary love of ordinary mothers. It brings to light the transformation which not only their children go through but also the transformation experienced by the mothers themselves as they navigate through the different stages of their children's lives. It's a movie about enduring friendships and emotional bonds that celebrates women and their shared experiences. The film is a definite yes for everyone who adores family-centered stories sprinkled with a good dose of comedy and heartfelt moments.