Mother of Tears (2007) Review

Dario Argento's "Mother of Tears" is the much-anticipated conclusion to his "Three Mothers" trilogy, which began with "Suspiria" in 1977 and continued with "Inferno" in 1980. Released in 2007, this film had the weight of expectation on its shoulders, with fans eager to see how Argento would wrap up the mythos he started decades earlier. Known for his unique blend of horror, surreal imagery, and atmospheric tension, Argento attempts to bring all these elements to the forefront in this final installment.

Plot Summary

"Mother of Tears" kicks off in modern-day Rome, where an ancient urn is unearthed, unleashing a malevolent force that is tied to the last of the Three Mothers, Mater Lachrymarum, or the Mother of Tears. Chaos ensues as witches from around the world gather, leading to an outbreak of violence and hysteria across the city. The film follows Sarah Mandy, played by Asia Argento, who becomes embroiled in this supernatural turmoil. As Sarah discovers her own connection to the unfolding events, she must find a way to thwart the rising evil before it consumes everything.

Performances

Asia Argento, Dario's daughter, takes the lead role and delivers a performance that is both grounded and emotionally resonant. Her portrayal of Sarah Mandy carries the film, providing a focal point for the audience amidst the chaos. As a seasoned actress familiar with the horror genre, she brings a believable vulnerability and strength to her character.

Supporting Asia is a cast that includes Udo Kier and Daria Nicolodi, both of whom are staples in the horror genre and have collaborated with Argento in the past. Kier's presence, though brief, adds a touch of gravitas, while Nicolodi's role is more meaningful given her history with Argento's films. The ensemble works well together, although some performances occasionally lean into the campier side of horror, which is typical of Italian genre films.

Direction and Craft

Dario Argento is a name synonymous with Italian horror, and "Mother of Tears" showcases both his strengths and some weaknesses. The film is visually striking, with Argento's flair for colorful, surreal imagery on full display. The use of Rome as a backdrop adds an intriguing layer, merging ancient architecture with the unfolding supernatural chaos.

However, while the visuals are strong, the narrative pacing can be uneven, with moments of intense horror interspersed with slower, more contemplative sequences. This contrast might be jarring for some viewers, but it does serve to heighten the impact of the more graphic scenes. The practical effects and gore are notable, staying true to Argento's reputation for pushing boundaries in horror.

The soundtrack, composed by Claudio Simonetti, a frequent Argento collaborator, complements the film's eerie atmosphere. It effectively enhances the tension and drama, though it might not reach the iconic status of Goblin's work on "Suspiria."

Collector's Verdict

For collectors, "Mother of Tears" is a fascinating piece to own, especially if you're a fan of Dario Argento's work or Italian horror in general. The best format to own this film is undoubtedly the Blu-ray edition. This format captures the vibrant color palette and intricate visual details that Argento is known for, while also providing clear audio quality that does justice to Simonetti's score.

In terms of rarity, "Mother of Tears" is classified as uncommon. While not exceedingly rare, finding a high-quality version, particularly with any special features or director's commentary, adds value for collectors. It's a worthwhile addition for those who appreciate the historical context of Argento's trilogy.

Ultimately, "Mother of Tears" may not reach the iconic heights of its predecessors, but it offers a fitting, if somewhat chaotic, conclusion to the story of the Three Mothers. Collectors will appreciate its place within the larger framework of Argento's body of work.