The Mother

Right now you can watch The Mother in Australia on Netflix, and in the US on Netflix — and it earns its twists rather than manufacturing them. It says what it needs to say in one sitting, no filler. A 7/10 rating says what the writing already makes obvious: this one works. Jennifer Lopez's performance alone is worth the time investment. Put it on tonight on Netflix and see for yourself.

There is a reason The Mother keeps coming up in conversation. The Mother treats its mystery as a means, not an end in itself. A deadly female assassin comes out of hiding to protect the daughter that she gave up years before, while on the run from dangerous men. The writing gets a boost from Jennifer Lopez and Lucy Paez, who sell every scene they're in. It hit screens in 2023. What makes The Mother hold up is that the resolution matters less than how the characters get there. There is real craft here, even in the moments that do not fully land.

Crime and mystery fans will find exactly what they are after in The Mother. It does not lean on comparisons to make its case. Short enough to finish in one sitting, substantial enough to feel satisfying. Jennifer Lopez anchors it, but the writing does the real work. If you are going to commit to one crime drama this month, make it this one.