If you are looking for a paint by numbers horror film, or something that is easy to digest with moments from the trailer that you can hang the narrative hat on, Other Mommy is not the movie for you. This film appears to be Universal’s best version of either an A24 or, more appropriately, a Neon release.
What we get with this movie is a story about the relationship between a mother and a daughter. What it means to be a mother to a daughter, and what it means to be a daughter to a mother.
THAT IS THE MOVIE.
The complexities and inner woven feelings within that relationship are examined stringently. Other Mommy features striking performances by the mother, Jessica Chastain, and the daughter, Arabella Olivia Clark (who is astounding).
To try to explain or make total sense of this Blumhouse film is a fools errand and that is really not the point here. It is a movie of universal moments with horror mixed in.
Tropes like jump scares leave the audience guessing and wondering if the incomprehensible can be made comprehensible. Again, you can try to piece this whole thing together or you can just enjoy it for the beautiful creation that it is. Sort of like the way a parent looks at a child, right?
If you want something that is very different, Other Mommy is for you. It is a beautifully shot, incredibly acted horror film. It both elevates and bathes in the genre it resides in. But what do I know? I’m only the director of Amityville Backpack. I know when a movie is trying something different. And I applaud it for that.
