A new cinematic journey: Exploring the depths of motherhood and addiction
Natalia Smirnoff’s latest project
Argentine director Natalia Smirnoff, known for her acclaimed films “Puzzle” and “Lock Charmer,” is set to helm an ambitious international co-production titled “(Im)perfect Mom”. This project brings together Colombian production houses Laberinto Producciones and Ganas Producciones, Argentina’s Tarea Fina, and Canada’s Fait Divers Media.
A story inspired by real-life struggles
Scheduled to begin filming in May 2025, “(Im)perfect Mom” draws inspiration from the bestselling memoir “Drunk Mom: A Memoir” by Polish-born writer Jowita Bydlowska. The narrative centers on Jo, a 42-year-old successful photographer who embarks on the tumultuous journey of motherhood. As she navigates the challenges of breastfeeding and the physical changes of postpartum life, Jo’s celebration with her husband and friends takes a dark turn when she succumbs to alcohol addiction.
The emotional rollercoaster of motherhood
Despite the joy of becoming a mother, Jo’s first sip of alcohol triggers an uncontrollable addiction, leading to a fierce internal battle. The film delves into her struggle to maintain her role as a mother while trying to prevent her life from unraveling. This poignant story is a reflection of the often unspoken challenges that many mothers face.
A collaborative effort
The film has been selected for the fourth edition of Iberseries & Platino Industria’s Co-Production and Financing Forum. The producers have secured a distribution deal with Elba McAllister’s Cineplex for Latin America. Colombian writer-actress-producer Marcela Mar and Laberinto’s Diana Camargo are producing the project alongside Tarea Fina’s Juan Pablo Miller and Montreal-based Fait Divers Media’s Arantza Maldonado.
A necessary film for our times
Marcela Mar, who also co-leads the cast with Spanish-Argentine actor Ernesto Alterio, emphasizes the importance of this film. “This film is necessary for us to see ourselves reflected, to accompany us in the loneliness of postpartum birth and to leave as a legacy a line of psychosocial care for mothers and families who are going through postpartum depression and/or addictions,” she commented.
A journey through unbreakable bonds
Natalia Smirnoff describes the film as “a journey through the unbreakable bonds formed between mother and child amidst the complexities of motherhood and addiction.” The script, co-written by Smirnoff, Mar, and Gloria Nancy Monsalve, promises to offer a raw and honest portrayal of these themes.
Challenging societal ideals
Laberinto’s producer Diana Camargo highlights the societal pressures on mothers. “Motherhood is often idealized in our society, portraying mothers as perfect women who can face any challenge, leaving little room to recognize the ambivalence of the mothering experience and discuss the fears, insecurities, and profound changes that many of us mothers have experienced,” she said.
Laberinto’s legacy
Laberinto Producciones, known for its Emmy International Award-nominated film “Buenaventura Don’t Leave Me,” has a rich history of producing content for platforms like Caracol Televisión, Netflix, Max, Nickelodeon, and Señal Colombia. The Bogotá-based company operates under a hybrid model, producing its own films and providing services for national and international clients.
Smirnoff’s cinematic journey
Born in Buenos Aires, Natalia Smirnoff made her directorial debut with “Puzzle,” produced by Juan Pablo Miller’s Tarea Fina. The company has also produced notable films like Cannes Camera d’Or winner “Las Acacias,” Argentine Oscar candidate “The Sleepwalkers,” and San Sebastian Best Latin American Film “Sublime.”
A film to watch
“(Im)perfect Mom” is set to be a powerful exploration of the complexities of motherhood and addiction. For those interested in a deeper look at the film, you can watch the trailer here.
This film promises to be a significant addition to the cinematic landscape, offering a raw and honest portrayal of the challenges faced by many mothers. It is a must-watch for anyone interested in the complexities of human relationships and the struggles that often go unseen.