DVD Corner

Mother Criterion 4K UHD Review

“Mother” is another winner from Albert Brooks.

Written by Albert Brooks and Monica Johnson, 1996’s “Mother” is a comedy-drama that revolves around a recently divorced sci-fi author (John) who seems to be stuck in life. He can’t figure out what to write next, he’s unlucky in love, and he’s not exactly close with his mother unlike his brother (Jeff) who is very much a momma’s boy. Wanting to figure things out and perhaps get to the root of some of his problems, John decides to move in with his mother (Beatrice) and set-up his room like it was when he was a child. As John attempts to connect with his mother, the two bicker about everything from food to his mother’s overly critical and apologetic behavior. There seems to be an underlying issue, but can this mother and son work things out and move forward in life? 

On paper, “Mother” might sound like a sitcom, but it’s far from it. Writer/director Albert Brooks never goes for cheap laughs and instead clearly draws from life experiences in this tale of a mother and her 2 sons. This is the type of film that often feels so honest to the point where it can be slightly uncomfortable yet still funny. Granted, there are moments where Brooks is definitely going for laughs (the “Mrs. Henderson” “Mrs. Robinson” spoof comes to mind), but for the most part he’s crafting a psychological and analytical story that deals with ideas about connections, resentment, jealousy, judgments, and deep-seated emotions that we bury. There’s a lot going on within the character dynamics between Beatrice, John and Jeff which is what makes this such a rich and ultimately rewarding story. Is the ending a little too rushed and tidy? Perhaps, but it feels earned. 

Although there are appearances by Lusa Kudrow, Anne Haney, and John C. McGinley, this is very much Albert Brooks, Debbie Reynolds and Rob Morrow’s movie. Morrow (best known for “Northern Exposure”) shines as the momma’s boy, the late great Debbie Reynolds gave one of the finest performances of her career as the complex Beatrice, and Brooks is, well, Brooks. When Albert Brooks stars in a movie he writes and directs, you know what you’re getting from the beloved comedic actor. You can’t imagine anyone else in that role.

Video/Audio:

Presentation: 1.85:1 2160p. How does it look? The 4K digital restoration offers up a nice upgrade. The colors may be a little muted, but the image is undoubtedly sharper.

Audio Track: 2.0 DTS-HD MA. How does it sound? Expect a clean 2.0 track for this largely dialogue centric film. 

Extras (On The Blu-ray):
* Blu-ray
* A booklet with photos, credits and an essay by author Carrie Rickey.
* Teaser and trailer
* An in-depth newly recorded 26 minute interview with Albert Brooks who talks about the inspiration for the film, his own mother, behind-the-scenes stories, video phones, scenes that are lifted from real life, and more.
* A new 11 ½ minute interview with Rob Morrow who talks about the character of Jeff, Albert Brooks films, his experience in working on the film, Debbie Reynolds, etc. 

August 4, 2024 - Posted by nicklyons1 | 4K UHD Review | Albert Brooks, Comedy, Criterion Collection, Debbie Reynolds, Mother 1996 Movie, Mother Criterion 4K UHD Review, Rob Morrow