Bloody ‘Mother!’ nurtures VIPs

DARREN Aronofsky’s controversial film “Mother!” sharply divided critics and audiences last month when it hit theaters — but the movie’s getting big support in Hollywood from stars and directors as well as its studio, Paramount, heading into awards season. Studio boss Jim Gianopulos and David O. Russell — who’s directed “Mother!” star Jennifer Lawrence in “American Hustle,” “Joy” and “Silver Linings Playbook” — hosted a VIP screening at LA’s Soho House for guests including Aronofsky and Lawrence, Charlize Theron, Sharon Stone, Rosario Dawson, Emma Roberts, Chris Tucker and Tyrese Gibson, as well as directors Alfonso Cuarón, Scott Cooper, Edgar Wright, Miguel Arteta and TV legend Norman Lear. Jared Leto made a toast, calling it Aronofsky’s “best film,” spies said. “Jared said he had no doubt that ‘Mother!’ will join the ranks of such cult classics as ‘Fight Club,’ ” a source said. Another added: “Even though Jim inherited this film from Brad Grey, he is deeply committed to it and Darren.” Paramount’s planning more screenings in LA and New York.