The Revolt Of Mother

Amy Madigan has a field day in the title role of this very close adaptation of Mary Wilkins Freeman's short story about a housewife's revolt. When Mother sees that Father is engaged in some serious construction activity, she queries him as to the final form of this proposed building. In her heart, she has hoped for a new house for 19 years. When he responds that it's going to be yet another barn, Mother lays her cards on the table. Their daughter, Nanny, is fixing to be wed, and she needs a new house. To all her entreaties, Father turns a deaf ear, saying that he has nothing to say on the matter. But when Father is called out of town for a few days, Mother acts. She packs up kith and kin, bottles and beds, and moves into the barn--much to Father's surprise on his return. In a truly poignant ending, Mother goes outside to find Father crying, because he had no idea she was that serious. The Revolt of Mother is a simple, albeit powerful, story that is gorgeously filmed, and meticulously set in 1890 New England. Winner of a Blue Ribbon at this year's American Film & Video Festival, this is highly recommended for all school and public libraries. (Available from most distributors.)