In 'Mom', the storytelling is imbued with a sense of moral balance, largely driven by Sridevi's poignant portrayal of a mother seeking her daughter's acceptance. Their relationship deepens following a family crisis, transforming a familiar narrative into a compelling saga of revenge that captivates the audience. A hallmark of a strong revenge story is the audience's ability to empathize with the protagonist's suffering, and Sridevi excels in this aspect, making it difficult to divert one's gaze from her emotional turmoil as she navigates her daughter's struggles. Her performance is nothing short of remarkable, showcasing a mother determined to seek justice for her child at any cost.
Sridevi fully immerses herself in the role of Devaki, blurring the lines between her own identity and that of her character as she embarks on a path of vengeance. Her transformation is evident, particularly in a scene where she confronts a police officer with newfound confidence, shedding the earlier hesitance of a grieving mother.
However, 'Mom' is not solely defined by Sridevi's performance. Unlike some of her previous films, where supporting characters often faded into the background, this film features a robust ensemble cast. Sajal Ali, portraying Sridevi's daughter, delivers a performance that balances vulnerability with strength, holding her own against Sridevi despite limited shared screen time.
Adnan Siddiqui shines as Sridevi's husband, embodying a couple united in both joy and sorrow, while Akshaye Khanna impresses as a conflicted police officer grappling with his sense of duty and justice. His pivotal scene with Sridevi in a parking lot highlights his seasoned acting prowess. Abhimanyu Singh also stands out as a menacing Haryanvi antagonist, adding depth to the villainous ensemble. Notably, Nawazuddin Siddiqui's portrayal of a lowbrow detective brings humor and relatability to the film, as he interacts seamlessly with Sridevi's character without overshadowing her.
Director Ravi Udyawar skillfully maintains a consistent emotional tone throughout the film, ensuring that the narrative remains engaging for its nearly two-and-a-half-hour runtime. The tension is palpable, with expertly edited scenes that enhance the drama without veering into melodrama.
While some portrayals of antagonists could have benefited from subtlety, the film's strength lies in its character-driven responses to adversity, showcasing their resilience in challenging circumstances.
'Mom' stands out as a significant film. Despite its familiar themes, Udyawar's direction ensures that each scene resonates with a sense of urgency and relevance. Viewers may find themselves pondering what makes 'Mom' feel so unique, as it exudes a freshness that invites deeper reflection.
In a conversation with a journalist, Sridevi expressed her enthusiasm for 'Mom', stating, "This film is special enough to draw me back to the studios. It's an emotional journey, and I had the privilege of working alongside talented actors like Akshaye Khanna and Nawazuddin Siddiqui. The bond I formed with Sajal Ali during filming was particularly meaningful, especially given her personal loss. I feel a deep connection with her, almost like a third daughter. 'Mom' is not a light-hearted film; it demands a serious approach, and I wanted to immerse myself in that mindset. I believe audiences will leave the theater with something valuable, just as they did with 'English Vinglish'."
Post-'Mom', Sridevi expressed her eagerness to take on more projects, emphasizing her dedication to her craft. "I've been in this industry since I was four, and I still love the work. I strive to give my best in every role. My daughters enjoy watching my older films, and they understand that the style of acting and fashion has evolved over the years. The secret to my youthful appearance? It's about inner happiness. If you're not content within, no amount of makeup can mask it. I lead a disciplined life, but I also indulge in treats occasionally, balancing it out with exercise. My husband often jokes about my strictness, but we both enjoy our sweet moments together."