Cast
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Jaana Saarinen
as Eeva
Matti Pajulahti
as Kalle
Matti Onnismaa
as Finland's best detective
Jonathan Hutchings
as Hasse
Jouko Puolanto
as Family friend
Jari Kuusisto
as Pervert
Helmi-Leena Nummela
as Maria
Liina Valtonen
as Young Maria
Kaisla Kaltiokallio
as Maria as a child
Eeva Kilpi
as Maria as a baby
Annika Aapalahti
as Waitress
Mirja Oksanen
as Officer
Eppu Pastinen
as Alternative civilian serviceman
Pekka Lehtosaari
as Hotel's serviceman
Jaakko Hutchings
as Mikael
Crew
Director
- Samppa Batal
Writer
- Samppa Batal
- Krista Hannula
Producer
- Krista Hannula
- Maarit Laaksoharju
- Miikka Pakarinen
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, A Mother examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of contemporary challenges that mirror our own experiences. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.
Director Samppa Batal brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 2019, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of A Mother took approximately 33 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 91 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 144 minutes long.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 11 months to complete.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
Historical Context
- In 2019, when this film is released:
- Climate change awareness was becoming a central global concern.
- Smartphones and social media had transformed daily life and communication.
- Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.
How This Film Stands Out
While A Mother shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Marvin & Tige, which focuses more on action than character development, A Mother offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Ganzer halber Bruder and Gods of the Plague explore similar territory, A Mother stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: May 10, 2019
- Runtime: 1h 31m
