Opened: December 25, 1996

Directed by: Albert Brooks

Starring: Albert Brooks, Debbie Reynolds, Rob Morrow, Laura Weeks, Isabel Glasser, Danielle Quinn, Spencer Klein, Paul Collins, John C. McGinley, Vanessa Estelle Williams, Lisa Kudrow, Anne Haney, Billye Ree Wallace & Peter White

Helmed by Albert Brooks as director, co-writer and star, Mother is a fantastic look at a mother-son relationship that gave the legendary Debbie Reynolds her first major role in 20 years.

John Henderson (Brooks) is having writer’s block and going through a divorce when he decides to move back in with his mother Beatrice (Reynolds) after realizing his problems stem from their relationship.

The screenplay by Brooks and Monica Johnson is brilliant. It’s bitingly funny and feels genuine and natural. There are flaws in both characters, but neither is a bad person. Everyone can see themselves and their parents in John and Beatrice.

Reynolds is brilliant and has a stellar way of being sweet with an acidic undertone. You can’t help but laugh and love her even when Beatrice is clearly in the wrong.

Final say: Love Mother. ★★★★★