In our private forum discussion right now, we are discussing how to define and execute the role of the Mother in a project we are developing. We’re discussing the differences between two classic iconic depictions of mother, June Cleaver and Maria (Julie Andrews).

In our private forum discussion right now, we are discussing how to define and execute the role of the Mother in a project we are developing. We’re discussing the differences between two classic iconic depictions of mother, June Cleaver and Maria (Julie Andrews).

I am quickly leaning to the side of favoring the “Maria” depictions in film where the mother figure is depicted as active, aggressive, and involved hands-on in the rearing of the family.

Really, we’ve seen so much of the other depicted in film — stately house-wives always perfectly dressed ready to attend to the need of their children/husbands (I’m obviously addressing a classic Hollywood stereo-type here).

What’s even more alarming/disturbing is the complete absence of the mother in our most popular cinema. A very dynamic and engaging entertainment experience is being removed without Mom involved in the story.

Thinking about my own experiences with motherhood (as a husband, father, and son), there are few roles that are more misunderstood. For whatever reason, depictions of Mom are squeezed of their vibrance and energy, and are either too flat, too stiff, and altogether irrelevant to any major plot or story to not be considered worthy of engaging entertainment.