Divisive drama leaves a mark

how the plot plays out, other than to say it will leave you scratching your heads, wriggling in your seats, rolling your eyes and dropping your jaws in equal measures.

What is easier to talk about, though, are the on-screen performances. None of the characters are given names, beyond basic terms like “Him”, “Man” and “Woman”, but most of the cast rise above this cypher-like existence.

Perhaps surprisingly, however, leading lady Jennifer Lawrence (Mother) – who developed an off-set relationship with Aronofsky during filming – is the one who struggles to keep up with the craziness.

In a rare recent career mis-step, the 27-yearold fails to embody her role with the depth required, even though Mother’s put through the wringer more than Katniss Everdeen ever was throughout The Hunger Games saga.

Javier Bardem, Ed Harris and father-and-son Brian and Domhnall Gleeson hold up their end of the bargain very well, but it’s Michelle Pfeiffer’s sinister “Woman” who steals the show as the former Catwoman makes a welcome return to the spotlight.

Nevertheless, no matter what you think of the acting here it’s some of the demented imagery and unhinged behaviour that will stick with you for days afterwards.

To say Mother! won’t be for everyone is like saying grass is green and I have to admit that by the end I felt like I needed a lie down – and that Aronofsky’s selfindulgence had gotten slightly out of control.

Still, it’s unlike any other film you’ll see this year, and demands repeat viewings.