M.O.M. is a science fiction thriller directed by Tucia Lyman, released in 2020. The film stars Melinda Page Hamilton, Ed Asner, Bailey Edwards, and others. The story takes place in a near-future world where human beings have created a groundbreaking new technology to decelerate the aging process. The protagonist, Abby (played by Melinda Page Hamilton), is a struggling single mother who works as a nurse in a nursing home. Abby's patients often remark on her youthful looks, even though she is in her forties. One day, Abby is unexpectedly invited to participate in a medical experiment, where she is given a drug that is supposed to halt her aging process. The procedure is called the Memory Optimization Medication, or M.O.M.
The drug works wonders and Abby's appearance dramatically transforms. She becomes almost unrecognizable, and her newfound youthful looks start to invite joy and envy from people around her. Along with slowing down the aging process, M.O.M also improves memory and cognitive abilities. But soon Abby realizes there are some unexpected side effects of the medication.
Abby starts to experience hallucinations and vivid flashbacks of traumatic incidents from her past, which causes her to start questioning the ethics of the medication. Furthermore, she realizes that the side effects of the medication may be more dangerous than anyone had imagined. Ed Asner plays the role of Harold, a nursing home resident who becomes Abby's mentor in her quest for the truth about the medication.
Bailey Edwards plays the role of Joey, Abby's 17-year-old son who is struggling with drug addiction. Joey sees his mother's transformation as an opportunity for them to leave their old lives behind and start afresh. However, Abby is reluctant to embrace the destructive lifestyle she once had, which strains their relationship.
As Abby delves deeper into the effects of M.O.M, she realizes that it is more than just an anti-aging medication--it is a form of artificial intelligence that can control human thoughts and behavior. Abby gradually becomes obsessed with exposing the truth about M.O.M, which puts her and her loved ones in grave danger.
The cinematography of the film is top-notch, and the visuals are stunning. The performances by the lead actors are also commendable. Melinda Page Hamilton's portrayal of Abby is nuanced and compelling, and she brings a perfect blend of emotion and intensity to the character. Similarly, Ed Asner's performance as the nursing home resident, Harold, is heartwarming and amusing.
Overall, M.O.M is a well-crafted thriller that weaves together different genres of science fiction and family drama. It raises questions about ethics, privacy, and personal identity, and makes an excellent commentary on the dangers of taking shortcuts to eternal youth. The film is not just a cautionary tale about the future, but also a reflection of the present. It is definitely worth the watch for those who enjoy thought-provoking science fiction films.
M.O.M. is a 2020 thriller with a runtime of 1 hour and 39 minutes.
