The official trailer for Four Mothers has just been released, giving audiences a first glimpse into this heartwarming and chaotic comedy-drama. Directed by Darren Thornton (A Date for Mad Mary) and co-written with his brother Colin Thornton, the film follows a struggling writer tasked with caring for four wildly different mothers during a weekend full of unexpected twists. The trailer captures the perfect balance of humor, heart, and family dynamics, giving fans a taste of what’s to come when the film hits UK and Irish cinemas this April.
Four Mothers centers on Edward (James McArdle – Mary Queen of Scots, Mare of Easttown, Ammonite), a talented novelist on the verge of literary success, as he juggles the growing excitement of a US book tour with the demands of caring for his elderly mother, Alma (Fionnula Flanagan – The Others, The Guard). Just as Edward’s life begins to take off, his three friends—clearly with no concern for the man’s well-being—embark on an impromptu Pride getaway to Spain, leaving their own mothers in Edward’s capable hands. What follows is a weekend full of hilarious, heartwarming moments as Edward struggles to keep up with the eccentric and combative women in his charge.
Adapting Gianni Di Gregorio’s 2008 Mid-August Lunch—which won Best Feature at the London Film Festival—the film carries a touch of personal significance for the Thornton brothers. The story draws inspiration from their own experiences with their mother, Trish, making it a deeply personal project that reflects both the chaos and the love of family. This authenticity shines through in every scene, with Four Mothers managing to balance the comedic chaos with moments of tenderness, creating a well-rounded cinematic experience.
The film screened in Official Competition at the BFI London Film Festival, where it was met with enthusiastic praise and ultimately won the coveted Audience Award for Best Feature. This award has cemented Four Mothers as a standout film, one that blends humor, heart, and a touch of unpredictability in a truly unique way.
The stellar ensemble cast also includes the talents of Dearbhla Molloy (nominated for an Olivier Award for The Ferryman), Paddy Glynn, and Stella McCusker. A fun twist comes in the form of Niamh Cusack’s cameo as a medium, while Rory O’Neill, better known as the legendary drag performer Panti Bliss, steps into the role of a quirky therapist.
The film’s core theme of an unlikely found family, navigating through an emotionally charged journey of self-discovery and acceptance, strikes a universal chord with audiences. The unlikeliest of bonds form over the course of the chaotic weekend, proving that sometimes, family isn’t always who you’re born with, but who you end up with.
Four Mothers will screen at the Dublin International Film Festival and Glasgow Film Festival before making its way to UK and Irish cinemas on 4th April 2025. The film will be released in UK cinemas by BFI Distribution and in Ireland by Break Out Pictures.
