Some movies don’t need to be perfect to be deeply moving. Ma Mère, Dieu et Sylvie Vartan, directed by Ken Scott, is one of those films for me. It’s a mix between a family drama and a biopic, and while that combination doesn’t always blend seamlessly, the sheer heart of the story, and a powerhouse performance from Leïla Bekhti, makes it a touching and unforgettable watch.

Set in 1960s Paris, the first half of the film follows Esther (Bekhti), a devoted and fiercely determined mother fighting for her son Roland (later played by Jonathan Cohen), who is born with a club foot. Against all odds, she promises him a bright future, one where he walks, thrives, and lives a life as extraordinary as any other child. What follows is a decades-spanning journey filled with struggles, triumphs, and an unwavering mother-son bond in all its beauty and complexity.

This is where the movie shines for me. Bekhti delivers a breathtaking performance – seriously, she carries this film -, bringing Esther to life with a mix of warmth, eccentricity, and sheer willpower. Her character is sometimes overbearing but always loving. She’s the heart of the film, and every emotional moment lands because of her. Although, Cohen comes in the film’s latter half, he holds his own as Roland.

Then, the film shifts gears. As Roland grows up, the focus moves from the mother-son relationship to his personal journey. Cohen is good as Roland, capturing the awkwardness, vulnerability, and humor of a man trying to navigate life, love, and his own identity. The shift in tone is jarring, and one of the through line of both parts is Rolland’s admiration for singer Sylvie Vartan. Bekhti’s performance even changes into something a bit more comedic, sometime sketch-comedy-like but it still works. The film goes from an intense emotional drama to something looser, even meandering at times. While it doesn’t always gel smoothly, it still works, largely because Roland’s journey is compelling enough to follow. The film becomes less about disability and more about passion, self-discovery, and the lingering influence of a mother’s love.

I’ll be honest, I cried multiple times during this movie. It’s not perfect; the two halves don’t always mesh well, and the pacing can feel uneven. But it’s so full of heart, and the performances are so good, that it’s hard not to be moved. Bekhti and Cohen are an incredible duo, and their chemistry is what makes the film work.

Even if you don’t know Roland Perez’s story – I didn’t -, and even if Sylvie Vartan isn’t a personal icon for you – she wasn’t for me -, this movie still resonates. At its core, it’s about resilience, love, and the sacrifices parents make for their children. And for that reason alone, it’s worth watching.

Ma Mère, Dieu et Sylvie Vartan (My Mum, God, and Sylvie Vartan), or Once upon my Mother – as I’ve seen it listed – may not be a flawless film, I didn’t even mention the awkward de-aging technology, but it’s a deeply heartfelt one. Bekhti delivers one of her best performances, and Cohen brings warmth and humor to balance the drama. It’s funny, touching, and at times devastating – just like real life. If you’re in the mood for a moving story about the power of a mother’s love, this one is worth your time.

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