‘Strained’ Netflix Movie Review - Can Broken Bonds Be Mended?

"Strained" delves into the complex dynamics between a mother, and daughter, and their journey towards reconciliation. It unravels the lives of Ebere, a new mother, and her estranged mother, Abigail. The narrative unfolds when Ebere's husband departs on a work trip, leaving her and their infant son in need of assistance. With no other recourse, Ebere reluctantly reaches out to her mother for help, setting the stage for an emotionally charged reunion.

Yet, Ebere's heart brims with resentment towards her mother, viewing her as an adversary rather than a source of support. This animosity stems from a deeply rooted trauma: Ebere's father's abusive behavior towards her mother, which led to Abigail's departure from the marriage. However, upon her return, Abigail found herself locked in a bitter tug-of-war with Ebere's father, who refused to relinquish control over their daughter, thereby subjecting Ebere to a toxic upbringing.

Unbeknownst to Ebere, her mother's decision to reenter her life was driven by a desire to protect and nurture her. However, the wounds of the past have clouded Ebere's perception, leading her to harbor feelings of abandonment and betrayal towards her mother. Can the chasm between them be bridged? Will Ebere come to understand the sacrifices her mother made, and find it in her heart to forgive and reconcile? Will there be a rebirth of their bond?

As Ebere navigates the challenges of motherhood, she grapples with her own demons while confronting the painful truths of her upbringing. Through poignant moments of introspection and revelation, she begins to unravel the complexities of her relationship with her mother. In the process, she discovers that forgiveness and understanding hold the key to healing their fractured bond.

"Strained" is a poignant tale of forgiveness, redemption, and the enduring power of familial love to transcend even the deepest wounds. It serves as a reminder that, despite the scars of the past, there is always hope for reconciliation and renewal.

While the plot of "Strained" delves into deep-seated familial issues and emotional conflicts, there's a palpable sense that something crucial is missing, failing to resonate with its audience on a profound level. Despite the strength of its narrative foundation, the execution leaves much to be desired.

Moreover, the pacing and development of key moments within the narrative may feel rushed or underdeveloped, detracting from the overall impact of the story. Important plot points and emotional revelations may be glossed over, leaving viewers longing for a deeper exploration of the character's inner turmoil and growth. The acting too sometimes feels like it's forced and sometimes over the top.

Ultimately, "Strained" has the potential to be a poignant exploration of forgiveness, redemption, and the enduring bonds of family. However, it must undergo a transformative journey of its own, refining its depiction of characters and emotions to strike a chord with its audience and leave a lasting impression.

Final Score- [4/10]
Reviewed by - Neerja Choudhuri
Follow @NeerjaCH on Twitter
Publisher at Midgard Times