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Most of us have experienced the heartbreak of losing a loved one—a friend, a mentor, a beloved family member. But it’s often been said that no loss is more painful than the loss of a child.
After watching her friend mourn the loss of a child in a car accident, first-time director Jennifer Steinman was inspired to take a group of grieving mothers (and one sister) on a 17-day healing journey to South Africa, to volunteer their time with children whose lives have been touched by AIDS.
Whether their children had died in auto accidents, gang shootings, or by their own hand, these six women had been dealing with the anguish in tearful silence, while struggling with the added pressure it placed on their marriages and other relationships. But once they arrive in Africa together—hosted by Hazel, a South African woman who shares in their loss—they begin to find comfort and healing in one another.
Motherland isn’t a movie about Africa or AIDS or the kids whose lives depend on the schools and care centers where the women spend their days. Instead, it’s a story of love, loss, and healing for these six strangers who help each other cope through laughter, tears, and friendship.
Throughout the film, the women open up about their experience—to the camera and to each other—each telling her own heartbreaking story. Anne shares pictures of her smiling daughter, Grace, taken just hours before she committed suicide. Debbi talks about the days she spent lying on her son’s grave. Mary Helena drives out to the parking lot where her son was shot.
Yet, as the film continues, you might just notice a change in many of the women. They cry together, but, as they help each other heal, they also begin to laugh together—and with the children—as they sing and dance and play games. They even begin to find joy in the simple things—like washing dishes together. And it’s a beautiful—and moving—transformation.
Motherland is an emotional journey—both for the women and for the viewers. Yes, it’s all a bit manipulative—but understandably so. It’s meant to tug at your heartstrings—and it will. You’ll be moved by the women’s stories, and you’ll also be inspired by their strength and touched by their gradual recovery. But it’s not just about the sorrow; it’s also about the joy—and Steinman is careful to fill the film with music and dancing to offset the heaviness of the women’s heartbreak.
While the film comes to a natural end as the women prepare to leave Africa behind, however, it feels like it ends just a bit too soon. After getting to know (and care about) these six women, viewers might have gotten a better feeling of closure from seeing the women’s stories continue for just a minute or two longer—to follow up with them after they return home.
Still, Motherland is a touching film—a powerful reminder of the importance of friendship and the comfort found in shared experiences.
