5 Reasons Why Mahershala Ali’s ‘Your Mother Your Mother Your Mother’ Is Worth the Watch
We may not get to see him on the big screen in “Blade,” but Mahershala Ali is giving us all the action we need in his upcoming film, “Your Mother Your Mother Your Mother.” This movie has everything you’d want to see from the superstar actor, plus a few surprises you didn’t know you needed.
The highly anticipated movie recently had its world premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) over the weekend, and judging by all of the positive press, this new project is going to prove once again why Ali is an elite actor. The film centers around Latif (Ali), a devoutly religious hitman who struggles to balance work, faith, and fatherhood. When his wife dies, he embarks on a desperate journey across Houston to protect his children, confronting the forces closing in around him—and the beliefs threatening to unravel within.
If that description still isn’t enough to convince you to give it a watch, keep reading.
Mahershala’s “Blade” Training is On Display
While Marvel fans may still be bummed out that “Blade” won’t be coming to a screen near them any time soon, they might be pleased to know that Ali was still able to put all the training he did for the role to good use. Speaking to Deadline over the weekend, the talented actor revealed that the sword training he did for “Blade” was an advantage while filming “Your Mother,” as he had to use the same skill set.
“I’m really grateful, they [Marvel] helped pay for our movie. So thank you, really. We couldn’t have afforded to—there’s no way we could’ve did this film, and I got to go train for a year. So, at this point, I’m so grateful that they made a wonderful contribution to our film,” Ali said.
Related: Amid Aaron Pierre’s Exit, What’s Going on with ‘Blade?’
Giancarlo Esposito and Tramell Tillman Have Great Cameos
Besides Ali, the film is filled with amazing talent from top to bottom. Acting legend Giancarlo Esposito makes a few appearances as Ali’s mentor. “Severance” star and Emmy-winning actor Tramell Tillman also pops up as Ali’s brother in some powerful scenes. You put all three of these heavyweights in one project together, and you know it’s going to be a phenomenal lesson in bringing gravitas to the screen, no matter how many minutes you show up!
Black Muslims Are the Main Characters
The film makes a powerful statement by placing Black Muslims at the center of the story. From showing Ali’s daughter wearing her hijab, the struggles with certain religious requirements like specific prayer times and fasting, the beauty of the Black Muslim community, and more—this film does a genuine job of showing the characters’ complexities, rather than relying on a reductionist trope.
Early Critics Are Already Head Over Heels About It
Though the film hasn’t hit theaters officially yet, thanks to its TIFF debut over the weekend, early critics are already sharing their two cents. And the chatter is overwhelmingly positive. In addition to countless posts on X/Twitter praising the film, the forthcoming project has already debuted with a 100 percent score on Rotten Tomatoes.
The Film Has Something For Everyone
If you’re someone who enjoys films where the main character kicks ass and takes names, you’ll enjoy this movie for the high-energy fight scenes. But if you’re looking for a little more emotion, you’re in for a treat too – thanks in large part to Adia, who plays Ali’s daughter in the film and gives a truly moving performance. Although the film deals with some heavy stuff, there are also enough moments of levity (thanks to Ali’s son, Quadir, played by Jahleel Kamara) to help break it all up. Trust us when we tell you, this film will leave you with a whole lot to marinate on after the credits roll.
“Your Mother Your Mother Your Mother” hits select theaters on Sept. 25 and a wide release in October.
