My Mother (Mia Madre) is a 2015 Italian drama film directed by Nanni Moretti. The movie's protagonist, Margherita (played by Margherita Buy), is a successful director who is struggling to balance the demands of her career with her personal life. She is in the middle of directing a politically charged film about protesting factory workers, while also dealing with her daughter's rebellious behavior and her mother's worsening health.
As Margherita struggles to cope with the impending loss of her mother (played by Giulia Lazzarini), she finds herself increasingly disconnected from her work and overwhelmed by her emotions. Her brother Giovanni (played by Moretti himself) tries to offer support, but he is also struggling to come to terms with their mother's illness.
Throughout the film, Margherita has a series of flashbacks and dreams that explore her relationship with her mother and her own sense of purpose in life. She also deals with some difficult professional setbacks, including clashes with an arrogant American actor (played by John Turturro) who is working on her film.
My Mother is a powerful and emotional portrayal of grief and the complexities of family relationships. It examines the themes of identity, mortality, and creativity, and features strong performances from Buy and Lazzarini. Moretti's direction is sensitive and nuanced, weaving together different storylines and emotions in a way that feels authentic and deeply affecting.