Italian
Mar Coll’s ‘Salve Maria’: A daring exploration of motherhood
A new chapter in Catalan cinema
Mar Coll, a pioneering figure in the Catalan cinema landscape, has spent the last two decades challenging societal norms and expectations. Her previous works, such as “Three Days With the Family” and “Matar al Padre,” have delved into themes like upper middle-class hypocrisy and paternal narcissism. Now, with her latest film, “Salve Maria,” Coll ventures into uncharted territory, questioning whether all women are inherently suited for motherhood.
A psychological thriller with a twist
“Salve Maria,” which premiered at the Locarno Film Festival, marks a significant departure from Coll’s earlier naturalist style. This time, she embraces the genre of psychological thriller, blending elements of suspense and introspection. The film follows Maria, a promising novelist and new mother, who becomes increasingly haunted by the specter of infanticide after reading about a French woman who drowned her twins. This chilling premise sets the stage for a gripping narrative that explores the darker aspects of motherhood.
Watch the trailer for Salve Maria
The haunting specter of infanticide
The film’s synopsis reveals that Maria’s life is overshadowed by the constant fear of becoming a monster herself. This fear drives her to the Pyrenees in search of Alice, a journey that blurs the lines between reality and fantasy. The decision to frame the story as a psychological thriller is evident in the film’s retro aesthetic, shot on 35mm film, and its pulsating orchestral soundtrack composed by Zeltia Montes, a Spanish Academy Goya winner.
A collaborative effort
“Salve Maria” is produced by María Zamora at Elástica Films, a prominent Spanish arthouse production house, and Escándalo Films, founded by Sergi Casamitjana. Elástica Films also handles domestic distribution in Spain, ensuring that the film reaches a wide audience.
Challenging societal norms
Coll’s films have always questioned established middle-class thought, and “Salve Maria” is no exception. The film raises the ante by suggesting that not all women are cut out for motherhood. Coll and her regular co-writer, Valentina Viso, strive to create intellectually stimulating and somewhat discomfiting narratives that challenge assumptions.
A departure from the norm
“Salve Maria” is an adaptation of Katixa Agirre’s book, “Mothers Don’t,” and represents a shift from Coll’s previous naturalist dramas. The decision to recast the story as a thriller was driven by a desire to create a more atmospheric and experiential film. The themes of anguish, guilt, and monstrosity are central to the narrative, making it a film that is more about physical sensation than intellectual discourse.
The social concept of monstrosity
One of the film’s key scenes features Maria visiting a Gothic church in the Pyrenean village of Taüll. This scene underscores the film’s exploration of taboo and guilt, particularly the notion that motherhood is an inherent capability. The film challenges the idea that dysfunctional motherhoods are monstrous, suggesting instead that they are simply misunderstood.
The taboo of motherhood
The film addresses one of the great taboos of the 21st century: the idea that not all women are suited for motherhood. This taboo is rarely discussed, making it difficult for those experiencing it to communicate their feelings. The film highlights the stigma, shame, and ostracism that often accompany such experiences, making it difficult for others to detect what is happening.
A unique soundtrack
The film’s soundtrack, composed by Zeltia Montes, plays a crucial role in creating its atmospheric tension. Recorded in Budapest, the score is omnipresent throughout the film, enhancing its emotional impact. This approach allowed Coll to experiment with language and emotion, creating a film that is both visually and aurally compelling.
A generational shift in filmmaking
The use of genre in films with social commentary is a growing trend among younger directors. Coll’s decision to make a more cinematographic film, with expressive shots and a classic score, sets “Salve Maria” apart from typical TV productions. The film’s mix of tones and its dramatic tension make it a compelling and thought-provoking experience.
Realism in the details
The early scenes of “Salve Maria,” featuring Maria attending maternity classes, have an almost documentary feel. Coll used real mothers and babies to create a sense of realism, grounding the film’s psychological thriller elements in a relatable context. The result is a European-style thriller that combines reflection with unsettling tension.
“Salve Maria” is a bold and daring film that challenges societal norms and explores the complexities of motherhood. With its unique blend of psychological thriller and social commentary, it is a must-watch for cinema enthusiasts.
