Der Ganz normale Wahnsinn - Working Mum (I Don't Know How She Does It)
U.S.A. 2011

Opening 17 Nov 2011

Directed by: Douglas McGrath
Writing credits: Aline Brosh McKenna, Allison Pearson
Principal actors: Sarah Jessica Parker, Pierce Brosnan, Greg Kinnear, Christina Hendricks, Kelsey Grammer

This enjoyable comedy (based on Allison Pearson’s bestseller) takes a look at the trials and tribulations of working-mothers and holds up a mirror to unsympathetic workplaces, spouses and judgmental bystanders. Kate (Sarah Jessica Parker), a Boston-based investment professional on a career path, is defending her position against a male contender (Seth Meyers) who has the luxury of not having also to multitask as a ‘mother-of-two’. Although her husband (Greg Kinnear) is supportive, organizing the household falls on her. Her job requires overtime and ad hoc business travel. Bringing up children has its daily surprises and is competitive too: ‘Momsters’, i.e., full-time mothers keeping count of the shortcomings of working mothers, are setting the bar high. This stretch seems to become impossible when Kate has to increase her travels to NYC. S.J. Parker inhibits the part of the always-apologetic juggling mother and capable professional convincingly, with perfect timing and charm. (Carola A)