Why this acclaimed 2014 drama was filmed in a restrictive, square aspect ratio
In short: Director Xavier Dolan chose an unconventional 1:1 aspect ratio for his film Mommy, rejecting standard widescreen formats. He argued this square frame offered a more intimate, humble perspective on the lives of his characters, rather than the unseemly, pretentious scope of traditional cinema, creating a uniquely claustrophobic and personal viewing experience.
Mommy, a 2014 Canadian melodrama, explores the volatile relationship between a widowed mother, Diane Després, and her teenage son, Steve, who suffers from ADHD and an attachment disorder. Facing financial ruin and the threat of institutionalization, Diane attempts to care for her son at home, eventually finding support from a neighbor, Kyla. The film is deeply personal for writer-director Xavier Dolan, who drew inspiration from his own mother and the music of Ludovico Einaudi, despite having no personal experience with the behavioral disorders depicted.
The film is notable for its 1:1 aspect ratio, a choice that drew both praise and criticism. While some reviewers found the format distracting, Dolan insisted it was essential for capturing the private, confined lives of his subjects. The production was marked by a collaborative, improvisational spirit, with actors and crew frequently rewriting lines on set. Dolan intentionally cast Anne Dorval and Suzanne Clément in roles that subverted their previous performances, aiming to push his actors into new territory.
Upon its debut at the 2014 Cannes Film Festival, Mommy received a 13-minute standing ovation and won the Jury Prize. It became a significant critical and financial success, grossing over $13 million worldwide. The film also swept major awards, including nine Canadian Screen Awards and a César Award for Best Foreign Film. Despite being Canada's submission for the 87th Academy Awards, it failed to secure a nomination.
The film's reception was largely positive, with critics praising the powerhouse performances of Dorval and Pilon. However, it was not without detractors; some critics questioned the psychological accuracy of Steve’s characterization, labeling it an artistic tantrum. Regardless, the film remains a landmark in Dolan's career, with some reviewers describing it as his magnum opus. Its legacy persists, including a notable 2016 incident where Netflix briefly altered the aspect ratio, prompting a sharp public rebuke from the director.
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- Summary by Intellect · source: Mommy (2014 film)
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