Directed by John Waters, this film is a dark comedy full of original jokes and killings. I decided to watch it because I thought it was a slasher. Although I love gory horror films, this movie did not disappoint. It has all kinds of twists. I cannot describe how much I loved it. The story is about a mom of a “perfect” family who does anything for her kids, as she takes very seriously things that could harm them in any way. For instance, a boy breaking her daughter’s heart. Or, a math teacher basically saying his son is dumb.
One of her favorite hobbies is actually harassing one of her neighbors on the phone. When the police ask her about it, she pretends to be surprised. Yet, she makes her obscene call later when everyone is gone. Little by little, people begin to learn who she really is. That is the fun part. I am unable to spoil anything because the film is meant to be funny, and you are aware of what is happening at all times.
What I liked the most about it, is how she is not even trying to hide the things she does. She just takes care of things without remorse, and not caring if there was a witness to her crimes. She uses very original weapons that I have never seen before in slashers. Serial Mom is the perfect example of the saying – “When there’s a will, there’s a way.”
The moment her husband and children realize she might be behind those killings, they try to stop her. They are aware that the detectives already suspect her. However, she will find her ways to keep doing what is “right.”
For one thing, she does have wonderful children, which implies that she is a “good” mom. The moment her son stepped out and helped her escape in Church when the police were about to take her into custody, showed how much he loved her. Even though she is a killer.
Significantly, one of my favorite scenes is when she is captured and the story of her crimes indulged people to make a film about it. They got the best actress to portray her, and she even attended court. Here’s where the dark comedy reached its peak. The trial seems unnecessary and dull. She is too smart for her own good. She even decided to advocate for herself. And, her family cannot believe how she is getting away with it, but they are happy for her.
Definitely a film you should watch with friends or your family. It has such a clever and entertaining plot.
Available on Netflix and Prime Video
