From Qala to Darlings: How Modern Cinema Is Breaking The Perfect Mother Stereotype

Flawed Motherhood in Cinema

The changing narrative of motherhood in films is evident in recent releases that highlight the complexities of real-life mothers. Movies like Qala, Jalsa, and Darlings present mothers who are ambitious, flawed, and sometimes unlikable, showcasing the not-so-perfect realities of motherhood.

Qala (2022)

In Qala, the protagonist navigates the challenges of having a controlling and manipulative stage mother who pushes her to achieve success at any cost. This toxic relationship leads Qala to rebel against her mother's expectations, ultimately resulting in tragic consequences. The film effectively illustrates the damaging effects of such parenting, shedding light on the emotional struggles faced by children of overbearing mothers.

Game of Thrones

Cersei Lannister, one of the most despised characters in Game of Thrones, is a mother who will stop at nothing to protect her children. Throughout the eight seasons, we have witnessed her unwavering devotion to them, a commitment she has demonstrated time and again. However, Cersei has faced immense tragedy, having lost all three of her children, which has left her shattered at every turn.

Darlings (2022)

Darlings, a dark comedy featuring Alia Bhatt and Shefali Shah, redefines the mother-daughter relationship in the context of domestic violence. The film portrays Shamshu, a mother who supports her daughter Badru in confronting her abuser. Shamshu's character breaks away from traditional portrayals by actively participating in her daughter's quest for justice, revealing her own not-so-ideal past. This film challenges the notion of the perfect mother by presenting a character who is both protective and morally ambiguous.

Lost Daughters (2021)

This film explores the contrasting lives of two mothers, showcasing societal labels of "good" and "bad" mothers. It delves into the complexities of motherhood, desires, and guilt, offering a refreshing perspective on maternal identities.

Dil Dhadakne Do (2015)

Shefali Shah's character, Neelam Mehra, initially appears to be a blind follower of societal norms, urging her daughter to "adjust" to an emotionally unavailable husband. However, as the film unfolds, viewers learn about Neelam's struggles with body image and generational gender norms, adding depth to her character.

Lady Bird (2017)

This coming-of-age story captures the tumultuous relationship between a strong-willed teenage girl and her overbearing mother, illustrating the struggles of acceptance and understanding during adolescence.

Jalsa (2021)

In the 2021 film Jalsa, Shefali Shah delivers a powerful performance as Rukhsana, a domestic worker who struggles with the guilt of being absent from her own family while caring for someone else's disabled child. When Rukhsana's daughter is accidentally hit by her employer Maya's car, the film explores the moral dilemma faced by both women. Shah's character is not the stereotypical selfless mother, but a complex individual grappling with her desires and responsibilities.

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Ginny & Georgia (2021)

This Netflix series humorously examines the unconventional bond between a teenage daughter and her single mother, highlighting the challenges and complexities of their relationship.

Drishyam 2 (2022)

Acclaimed actress Tabu has often portrayed mothers who defy traditional expectations. In Drishyam 2, her character Meera's love for her deceased son turns her into an almost villainous figure, subverting the idea of a mother's unconditional love. Tabu's characters are often morally ambiguous, challenging the notion of the perfect mother.

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