Night, Mother is a moving and stirring film about suicide. When a daughter Sissy Spacek sinks into unbearable despair, loneliness, and defeatism, she decides to end her life and in one night discloses this plan to her motherAnne Bancroft, with whom she lives. The film covers that last night and the conversations between Mother and Daughter. As the daughter tries to explain the "why", the mother tries in vane to convince her daughter not to do this.

The film is an adaptation of the play by Marsha Norman. The play Night, Mother was a Pulitzer Prize winning play. It is easy to see why, after seeing this film. It's an in depth study into to mind of someone wanting to commit suicide and the frustration of someone who knows but cannot dissuade them from this final act.

Spacek was fabulous in this film. She states her plans and then calmly goes about her preparations. These preparations include cleaning out the fridge and replacing a couch cover. She gives her mother instructions about how to care for the house, where things are located, and even how to conduct herself at the impending funeral. Bancroft is wonderful as the baffled mother who is desperate to save her daughter. The interaction between the two is incredible. Throughout their conversations one can see that the daughter never loses her resolve and the mother never gives up hope for changing her daughters mind.

Norman's adaptation of her play could have only been played by two strong, emotional , and inspiring actresses and Bancroft and Spacek fit that description.

This is not an uplifting film by any means, but it is an emotional experience that should not be missed. The revelations and conversations between mother and daughter in this film are moving and touching, yet sad and depressing. If there is any lesson to be learned from this film it is that these conversations and revelations should be shared with those closest to us before one has sunk to the depths of despair. With two sweet words, "Night, Mother" Spacek ends her life and ends the film. This is a wonderful film, with wonderful character development and interactions. It is a must see!

Recommended:
Yes

Viewing Format: DVD
Video Occasion: Fit for Friday Evening
Suitability For Children: Suitable for Children Age 13 and Older