Esteemed cinematographer Benoît Delhomme is renowned for his striking and deeply thought-provoking films, such as The Talented Mr. Ripley, The Theory of Everything, and Lady Chatterley’s Lover. He has also used his visual prowess to promote notable fashion brands like Balmain, Dior, and Chanel. These experiences seem to influence his choice to direct Mothers' Instinct, where he also serves as the director of photography.
The thriller showcases the lives of two impeccably dressed suburban wives, portrayed by Jessica Chastain and Anne Hathaway. The characters' complexity may be a tad too subtle, however, the film's exquisite aesthetics is undoubtedly compelling. A remake of a 2018 Belgian film, Duelles, and adapted from a novel by Barbara Abel, the story sounded promising but ultimately failed to achieve its potential.
The narrative revolves around two housewives, Alice and Celine, whose lives change dramatically following a tragic accident. Alice, played by Chastain, and Celine, played by Hathaway, were best friends living in near-identical houses in the same town. After the accidental death of Celine’s son, Max, who fell from the balcony while setting up a bird box, Celine finds herself overwhelmed with guilt and sadness.
The tragedy unveils underlying issues in their marriages, as Alice convinces herself that Celine had a role in the death of her son. Intricate costume designs add to the characters' depth, suggesting there's more than meets the eye, particularly with Alice, who starts exhibiting signs of instability. Meanwhile, Celine’s transformation is subtly hinted through her consistent choice of clothing colors.
The film explores the themes of motherhood and suburbia with a dark twist. But its message, aimed at critiquing mid-20th-century patriarchy, may miss the mark. Despite this, its intriguing storyline and immersive visuals make it undeniably enticing, providing a captivating platform for Jessica Chastain and Anne Hathaway's performances.
