Last week, we discussed movie moms we'd like to befriend at an imaginary Mother's Day brunch. Now that the dirty dishes are in the sink and the collective haze of mimosas and caffeine are behind us, we're ready to talk about the moms that we would not invite. These moms are not the baddest of the bad- murdering moms need not apply-, but these moms are bad for us personally. Sarah discusses how the proxy for Steven Spielberg's mother, Mitzi, in the 2022 film The Fabelmans rubs her the wrong way. Jennie confesses that she yells at Kate McCallister every year when her family rewatches the 1992 Christmas classic Home Alone 2: Lost in New York. These moms are just not making the list. Listen to find out why, and gain insights into how films can help us evaluate our own values in order to set healthy boundaries with others.

The Fabelmans IMDB Page
Home Alone 2: Lost in New York

For those who are Deaf or hard of hearing, please visit this link for the transcript of this episode of Screen Cares: Episode Transcript

Screen Shares Rating:

• The Fabelmans is a great Family Screen because sharing aspects about earlier filmmaking with intergenerational family members. The film also earned the elusive Canine Screen, Steven Speilberg Screen, and Solo- Screen from Sarah. (listen to learn why)
• Home Alone 2: Lost in New York is an excellent Family Screen because it’s a great chance for families to bandit proof their homes, discuss safe/unsafe adults, and reflect on how we honor one another’s authentic selves.

Screen Sparks:

Use our Screen Sparks to discuss The Fabelmans and Home Alone 2:

• As a parent, caregiver or as a human being, what are your values and how do they help you create healthy boundaries?
• What personality trait bothers you the most in other people and why do you think that is?
• How was Mother’s Day for you? What did you do/not do?
• What would be the most upsetting thing for someone to bring to a brunch?

Resources & Background

• Even Science Says You Need Mom Friends
• The New York Times-The Fabelmans: What’s Real and What’s Fiction
• Home Alone Is Way, Way More Messed Up Than You Remember

Bad Moms of Film Referenced In This Episode:Mitzi Fabelman- The FablemansKate McCallister- Home Alone 2: Lost in New YorkQueen Gudrun- The NorthmanMrs. Teevee- Willy Wonka and the Chocolate FactoryThe Other Mother- CoralineZinnia Wormwood- MatildaMother Gothel- TangledThe Evil Stepmother- CinderellaMrs. Bennet- Pride and PrejudicePetunia Durs

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