The Good Mothers

As Episode 1 of "The Good Mothers" (2023 release from Italy; 6 episodes of about an hour each) opens, we are reminded this is "based on a true story". It is "January 3, 2010" and a bomb explodes at the local prosecutor's offices in Calabria to send a message to the new prosecutor looking into the Ndrangheta mafia. In a parallel story line, we are introduced to Lea and her daughter Denise who are on their way to reunite with their husband/father. Before we know it, Lea mysteriously disappears... At this point we are less than 15 minutes into Episode 1.

Couple of comments: this TV mini-series jumps back-and-forth in time but most of it plays out between 2008 and 2011. If you wonder where in Italy Calabria is, it is the "toe" of the Italian boot, across from where Sicily is located. Calabria is remote, isolated, and mostly poor. But that didn't stop the local mafia, called Ndrangheta, from doing what the mafia does: they intimidate, extort, abuse, and kill people, all for the mobsters' financial gain. The women within the mobster families are treated with disdain and disrespect, and worse. Despite the long odds and lack of resources, several of them decide to stand up. This is tense and at time difficult watching. But it makes for compelling viewing. This is a no-star cast, except of course Gaia Girace, one of the two stars from "My Brilliant Friend". Girace is still only 20, and she has limitless potential. Can't wait to see what she'll do next. PLEASE NOTE: I watched this in the original Italian version, and for whatever reason in several long stretches, the subtitling's timing was off, as in: the subtitles showed about a second too soon, and hence didn't completely synchronize with the voices. Super annoying.

The first 2 episodes of "The Good Mothers" premiered at the Berlin film festival earlier this year to immediate acclaim. I read a nice review of this mini-series in the New York Times, and that was good enough for me to check it out. It's currently streaming on Hulu, and I watched all 6 episodes over 2 evenings. If you are in the mood for a tense Italian crime drama from a female perspective, I'd readily suggest you check this out, and draw your own conclusion.

... very well done six-episode-series... brought to this production seeing Micaela Ramazzotti as part of it, although her onscreen time is rather limited the importance-impact of her character resonates throughout all six of the episodes

... majority of people outside the country in all probability know little about the influence of these organizations, although their significance is now being felt world-over... this terrific little series establishes a human element to this troubling story, bringing it to light as having repercussion on lives of all families involved

... could-will there be another series an interesting question.. the world can surely use more knowledge-information-regarding any way it can get it.

This is a sensitive, beutifully produced story about the Calbria gangsters, a mafia-like organization that is very powerful and rich, spreading itself intelligently throughout Eurpose. The dominant clans are paranoid and possessive of their women and treat them very bady, often violently, according to this film. The ladies involved are all stunning, fine actors. The entire cast is sterling. The photography and the wrting is also beautiful. A unique solution to getting inside these criminals is the idea of inducing the women to come forward to end their violent servitude and provide better lives for their children, and it works very well. Based upon true events, this is a unique and powerful insight into the Italian criminal tradition, that continues to this day. Along the way we see fantastic photography of the calbria region and its diverse, different lifestyles. This a beautifully done story, important not just for women, but for society.

The Good Mothers, a riveting series available on Disney+, offers a thought-provoking narrative that sheds light on the unsettling truth that women in Europe still face significant challenges and struggles, even in the 21st century. Breaking away from the idyllic depictions often seen in movies, this show dares to expose the grim realities that exist beyond the surface.

Set in Europe, The Good Mothers introduces us to a group of courageous women who find themselves entangled in a complex web of organized crime, corruption, and social oppression. The series unflinchingly portrays the harsh realities faced by these characters, revealing the stark contrast between the idealized imagery often presented in films and the harsh truth that permeates real life.

One of the most striking aspects of The Good Mothers is its ability to challenge preconceived notions about the safety and security enjoyed by women in Europe. By delving deep into the characters' lives, the show highlights the vulnerabilities and dangers they encounter in their daily routines. Whether it's navigating treacherous relationships, fighting against systemic injustices, or facing the terrifying consequences of crossing powerful figures, the series portrays a side of Europe that is far from the rosy picture painted in mainstream media.

The strength of The Good Mothers lies in its realistic portrayal of the characters' experiences. The show doesn't shy away from exploring the various forms of violence, discrimination, and oppression that persist in European society. It showcases the multidimensional nature of the struggles faced by women, emphasizing the need for systemic change and a collective effort to create a safer and more inclusive society.

The performances in The Good Mothers are exceptional, with the talented cast bringing depth and authenticity to their roles. The writing is compelling, successfully weaving together intricate storylines that keep viewers on the edge of their seats. Each episode serves as a reminder that the fight for gender equality is far from over, and that women continue to face numerous obstacles in their pursuit of a better life.

While The Good Mothers highlights the dark underbelly of Europe, it also instills hope and emphasizes the resilience of its characters. The series serves as a call to action, urging audiences to confront the uncomfortable truths that exist within their own societies and work towards meaningful change. It reminds us that cinematic portrayals often fall short of capturing the full spectrum of human experiences, and that a closer examination of reality is necessary to create a fair and just world.

In conclusion, The Good Mothers is a gripping and eye-opening series that confronts the notion of women's safety in Europe. By presenting a stark contrast to the utopian portrayals often seen in movies, it provides a compelling narrative that underscores the challenges and struggles faced by women in the 21st century. Through its powerful storytelling and exceptional performances, the show serves as a reminder that life is not always as pink as depicted on the silver screen, and encourages viewers to question the status quo and strive for a more equal and just society.

I join other reviewers here who found this a compelling and emotionally intense series. Seen from a woman's perspective, the brutality, sexism and hypocrisy of the various mafia-type organizations that still permeate Italian society is both revealing and frightening. The bravery, strength and determination by all these women to remove themselves from their shackles is beyond words. What is clear is that the so-called 'honour' code and 'rules' that these bastards abide by are only adhered to when it suits them. What's truly laughable is how they portray themselves (the men mostly) as family-oriented, Catholic upholders of virtue and a 'way of life' that seems little changed from the Stone Age. Top-notch series and a must-watch!! Bravo those women who defy this system!!!