If you’re a fan of movies that get your brain juices flowing and spark endless debates among your friends, then you’ve probably seen or at least heard about ‘mother!‘ Directed by Darren Aronofsky, this mind-bending film has left people scratching their heads, amazed, or even feeling a little bit riled up. With an intense vibe, killer performances, and some seriously deep symbolism, ‘mother!’ has made its mark as a movie you won’t forget anytime soon.
You might think you’ve caught all the hidden meanings, but we’ve uncovered some surprising facts that even the most careful fans might have missed. So, if you’re still thinking about it, or just want to know what all the fuss is about, we’ve got you covered. Now, buckle up and prepare for a deeper dive into ten interesting facts about ‘mother!’ that will definitely grab your attention and maybe even give you a newfound appreciation for this cinematic rollercoaster.
Shot On 16mm Film
In an age of digital filmmaking, Aronofsky chose to shoot ‘mother!’ on 16mm film, giving the movie a grainy, almost dreamlike aesthetic. This choice enhances the film’s unsettling atmosphere and reinforces its theme of a world on the edge of collapse.
Characters Without Names
Throughout the entire film, the lead characters played by Lawrence and Bardem are never referred to by name. Instead, they are only credited as ‘Mother’ and ‘Him,’ emphasizing the allegorical nature of their roles.
Aronofsky’s Fever Dream
Aronofsky claims that the initial idea for ‘mother!’ came to him in a fever dream. This frenzied, nightmarish quality is evident throughout the film, as it spirals into chaos and takes viewers on a surreal journey.
The House As A Character
‘mother!’ features a living, breathing house that reacts to its inhabitants. From the pulsating walls to the gaping, bloody hole in the floor, the house serves as a powerful symbol of Mother Earth, reacting to the pain and destruction inflicted upon it by humanity.
Hieronymus Bosch’s Painting
The 15th-century Dutch painter’s work, ‘The Seven Deadly Sins and the Four Last Things,‘ influenced the design of the house and the unfolding chaos within it. The house’s octagonal floor plan is said to represent the seven deadly sins, with other rooms corresponding to the Four Last Things.
Biblical References And The Divine Comedy
Aronofsky weaves numerous biblical references throughout ‘mother!’ such as the story of Adam and Eve and the tale of Cain and Abel. Additionally, there are nods to Dante’s epic poem, ‘The Divine Comedy,‘ with possible allusions to the nine circles of Hell.
Music-Free Score
To achieve a unique and unsettling soundscape, composer Jóhann Jóhannsson used everyday objects, like wire brushes and glass jars, to create the film’s eerie score. This unconventional approach adds to the film’s otherworldly atmosphere.
A Unique Rehearsal Process
Before the actual shooting began, the cast went through an unusual rehearsal process. The entire film was rehearsed for three months in a warehouse in Brooklyn, New York, where a replica of the film’s house was built. This allowed the actors to familiarize themselves with the set and helped them prepare for the intensity of the scenes.
Jennifer Lawrence’s Unfortunate Accident
The intensity of Lawrence’s performance was so extreme that she dislocated a rib during one particularly harrowing scene. Her dedication to the role is evident in the visceral, gut-wrenching emotions she conveys on screen.
Five Days Were Enough
Aronofsky claims to have written the screenplay for ‘mother!’ in a mere five days to pour out his feelings and channel them into the script as soon as possible. This whirlwind creative process seems to have infused the final product with a sense of urgency and chaos that leaves viewers both awed and disturbed.
From its biblical inspirations to its unconventional filming techniques, ‘mother!’ is a film that rewards multiple viewings and deeper analysis. These ten surprising facts offer a glimpse into the creative process behind this enigmatic and polarizing film. Whether you’re a fan or a skeptic, there’s no denying that ‘mother!’ is a unique and unforgettable experience that continues to provoke discussion and debate.
