I first read the short story Mommy by Max Allan Collins in a compilation called Fears, and was eager to see the film when it was first released on home video. While Mommy was a fine enough film, Mommy's Day really shines as an extension of the first film yet holding its own well enough. This is actually a superior thriller to Mommy, though needing that first film to base this continuing story on. And a nice DVD treatment as well, I snatched both Mommy and Mommy's Day up at the same time.
After escaping a lethal injection for the murders Mommy (Patty McCormack) had committed, she is given a special implant in her arm that will keep her from having homicidal urges. However, since she still tries to see her daughter and other murders are continuing, it doesn't look very good for Mommy. What ensues is a nicely paced, clever mystery that really will draw you in. Considering the budget and only a few weeks to shoot, this is a great example of how you can make a good film with little money. This film proves that Muscatine, Iowa is just as good of a place for a film as anywhere!
An exceptionally good cast, brisk story and nicely placed surprises make Mommy's Day a refreshing mystery. Seeing Patty McCormack, Rachel Lemieux, Paul Petersen, Gary Sandy, Brinke Stevens, Mickey Spillane and even other actors from the first film disguised a little to play different ones in this one -- it's a nice surprise how it all just works so well. I'm a mystery buff and have seen many Italian giallo films so that I can usually figure a mystery out rather quickly, but Mommy's Day has a witty tone that even had me wondering up to the end what was really going on.
Those that pick this film apart are most likely spoiled from having seen many mega-million dollar Hollywood productions. For the rest that are open-minded and are willing to give the underdogs a chance, Mommy's Day is a fun time and worth seeking out. If you love a good mystery, this will not disappoint!
And the country song spoof "If Life Was Fair" sung by Patty McCormack is a total HOOT!!
