Mom is a 2017 Bollywood thriller-drama film directed by Ravi Udyawar, starring Sridevi in a critically acclaimed role alongside Nawazuddin Siddiqui, Akshaye Khanna, and Sajal Aly. The film is a powerful story about a mother’s love, revenge, and the lengths one can go to protect their child. Known for its emotional depth and stellar performances, Mom is a significant film in Sridevi’s career, as it was her last film before her untimely passing in 2018.
Plot Summary
The film revolves around Devki Sabarwal (Sridevi), a high school teacher and a loving mother to her daughter, Arya (Sajal Aly). Arya is a teenager who has a strained relationship with her stepfather, but she shares a close bond with her mother. The family’s life takes a dark turn when Arya is brutally attacked at a party, leaving her traumatized and physically scarred.
When Arya’s attackers are not held accountable due to their wealthy backgrounds and influence, Devki takes matters into her own hands, seeking justice for her daughter. The film follows her relentless pursuit of revenge and the moral dilemmas she faces as she navigates the complex world of crime, law, and vengeance. As Devki goes deeper into her quest, she must confront her own feelings of guilt, fear, and love for her daughter.
The film explores themes of justice, empowerment, and the painful consequences of taking the law into your own hands. Devki’s journey as a mother and a woman fighting for her child’s dignity resonates deeply with audiences, showing both the emotional strength and vulnerability of a mother.
Main Cast and Characters
- Sridevi as Devki Sabarwal, the determined and brave mother who seeks justice for her daughter in a world that has failed her.
- Nawazuddin Siddiqui as a private investigator, who becomes involved in Devki’s quest for justice. His character adds intrigue and suspense to the plot.
- Akshaye Khanna as Inspector Matthew, the police officer tasked with solving the case, who is both a skeptic and a support to Devki.
- Sajal Aly as Arya, Devki’s daughter, whose trauma from the attack becomes the catalyst for the story’s events.
The film also features an outstanding supporting cast, each adding emotional weight and depth to the story.
Themes and Style
Mom delves into the themes of maternal love, vengeance, trauma, and justice. The film is an exploration of how far a mother would go for the well-being of her child. It also critiques the justice system and the influence of power and wealth in a corrupt society. The movie blends emotional storytelling with a taut thriller, keeping viewers engaged while exploring sensitive issues with compassion and sensitivity.
Sridevi’s performance in Mom was widely lauded for its depth and emotional resonance, marking a standout moment in her illustrious career.
Audience Reception
Mom was a commercial and critical success, receiving widespread acclaim for its gripping narrative and Sridevi’s powerhouse performance. Critics and audiences praised the film’s emotional intensity and its handling of a sensitive subject matter. Sridevi, in her final film role, was posthumously celebrated for her portrayal of a mother who rises above her limitations to fight for her child. The film earned several awards and nominations, including the National Film Award for Best Actress for Sridevi.
Conclusion
Mom (2017) is a gripping, emotional, and thought-provoking film that explores the strength of a mother’s love and the dark paths one can take when seeking justice. With a strong narrative, standout performances, particularly by Sridevi, and a powerful message, the film has left a lasting impact on Bollywood cinema. It is an unforgettable tribute to the legendary actress and a poignant exploration of love, sacrifice, and vengeance.