The Second Mother

The Second Mother (2015) Movie Review

“The Second Mother,” directed by Anna Muylaert and released in 2015, is a Brazilian drama that explores themes of class, family dynamics, and personal aspiration through the lens of domestic life. The film offers a poignant and insightful look at the challenges faced by domestic workers and the impact of social class on personal relationships.

Plot Summary

“The Second Mother” centers around Val (Regina Casé), a live-in housekeeper who has worked for years for a wealthy family in São Paulo. The story unfolds as Val’s estranged daughter, Jessica (Camila Márdila), comes to stay with her and disrupts the established dynamics of the household.

1. Val’s Life: Val has been working as a domestic worker for the wealthy Carvalhal family for many years. She is dedicated to her job, taking pride in her work while maintaining a professional and emotionally supportive relationship with her employers. Despite her position, Val has had to distance herself from her own family to fulfill her duties.
2. Jessica’s Arrival: Jessica, Val’s estranged daughter, arrives from her small town with plans to take exams for college. Her presence brings a significant change to the household, challenging the established norms and dynamics.
3. Class Tensions: The film delves into the tensions that arise between Val and the Carvalhal family as Jessica’s presence highlights the class divide. Val’s desire for a better life for her daughter and Jessica’s own aspirations lead to conflicts and reveal underlying issues within the household.
4. Personal Aspirations: As the story progresses, the film explores Val’s struggles with her own personal aspirations and her position within the family. It highlights the sacrifices she has made and the emotional toll of her work, as well as her dreams for a different life.
5. Resolution: The film’s resolution reflects on the impact of Jessica’s stay on both Val’s personal life and her relationship with the Carvalhal family. It provides a thoughtful conclusion to the themes of class and family dynamics explored throughout the film.

Key Themes and Performances

1. Class and Social Inequality: A central theme of the film is the exploration of social class and inequality. The film portrays the stark contrast between the lives of the wealthy Carvalhal family and Val’s own struggles as a domestic worker.
2. Family and Sacrifice: The film examines the sacrifices made by domestic workers and the impact of these sacrifices on their personal lives and family relationships. It highlights the emotional and social costs of Val’s work.
3. Performances: Regina Casé delivers a powerful and empathetic performance as Val, capturing the character’s resilience and emotional depth. Camila Márdila also provides a compelling portrayal of Jessica, contributing to the film’s exploration of class and personal aspiration.
4. Direction and Screenplay: Anna Muylaert’s direction is marked by its sensitivity and attention to the complexities of its characters. The screenplay, co-written by Muylaert, provides a nuanced and engaging narrative that explores social issues and personal dynamics.

Cinematography and Direction

The cinematography, by Barbara Alvarez, effectively captures the contrasting environments of the wealthy household and Val’s more modest background. The film’s visual style enhances its portrayal of social class and personal relationships.

Anna Muylaert’s direction is characterized by its focus on character development and emotional depth. The film’s pacing and structure allow for a thorough exploration of its themes and characters, creating a compelling and thought-provoking narrative.

Audience Reception

“The Second Mother” received critical acclaim for its insightful portrayal of social issues and its strong performances. The film was praised for its ability to address complex themes with sensitivity and nuance.

Critics appreciated the film’s exploration of class dynamics and its engaging narrative. It has been recognized for its contribution to discussions about social inequality and the experiences of domestic workers.

Streaming and Availability

For those interested in watching “The Second Mother,” the film is available on several platforms:

• Amazon Prime Video: Check for rental or purchase options.
• Apple TV: Check for rental or purchase options.
• Google Play Movies: Offers rental and purchase options.
• YouTube Movies: Available for rental or purchase.

Conclusion

“The Second Mother” is a poignant and thought-provoking film that offers a nuanced exploration of class, family, and personal aspiration. With its strong performances, sensitive direction, and engaging narrative, the film provides a compelling look at the challenges faced by domestic workers and the impact of social inequality.

For those interested in a film that combines social commentary with emotional depth, “The Second Mother” is a must-watch. Its insightful portrayal of class dynamics and personal sacrifice makes it a significant and impactful work in contemporary cinema.