Beyond Fest 24: "A Mother's Embrace" - movie review

Cristian Ponce’s A Mother’s Embrace blends supernatural thrills with Lovecraftian mystery, but struggles to maintain its narrative direction.

One film we’re curious to see how viewers will respond to is Cristian Ponce’s Lovecraftian thriller A Mother’s Embrace. The story follows Marjorie Estiano as Ana, a young firefighter returning to work after battling PTSD. On her first day back, she and her team are called to a nursing home on the brink of collapse. But beyond the impending storm, the residents seem to be up to something strange—and have no intention of leaving. A Mother’s Embrace starts off as a thrilling ride but then transitions into a dreamlike, Lovecraftian mystery. Unfortunately, rather than allowing for more creativity, the film settles into familiar, overused tropes, ultimately limiting its potential.

Despite its narrative missteps, A Mother’s Embrace (or Abraço de Mãe) has plenty to admire. The Brazilian supernatural thriller gives off strong REC vibes, minus the found-footage aspect, and taps into the growing trend of eerie portrayals of the elderly. Marjorie Estiano shines as Ana, showcasing a compelling mix of strength and vulnerability as she struggles to overcome her trauma and return to the job she loves. However, once the story delves deeper into the Cthulhu Mythos, the film starts to lose its way. While Lovecraftian themes continue to resonate in horror, here they feel more like a distraction from the already strong narrative foundation.

There will always be an audience for Lovecraft-inspired films, but we believe viewers may be as perplexed as we were by the sudden shift in tone and direction.

Overall, A Mother’s Embrace is a solid feature, though it falters by trying to tie down a sprawling narrative. We’re eager to see more from Cristian Ponce and writers Gabriela Capello and André Pereira.

Rating: 2.5/5

A MOTHER’S EMBRACE

Director: Cristian Ponce

Cast: Marjorie Estiano, Chandelly Braz, Javier Drolas, Reynaldo Machado, Val Perré, Angela Rabello, Helena Varvaki, Rafael Canedo, Maria Volpe, Mel Nunes, Thelmo Fernandes