Sure, we all love mom. And most people express that on Mother’s Day with the purchase of a card or gift. According to Hallmark (CRWN), 155 million cards are exchanged each Mother’s Day, and it’s only second to Christmas for the most popular holiday to give gifts.

But, if Mother’s Day feels more maudlin than ma-inspiring, you’re not alone. Regardless of why you’re boycotting the holiday, it’s okay to say no to crowded brunches and cheesy gifts. Grab one of these titles and opt for a little cinetherapy instead. Your mommy issues won’t stand a chance against Joan Crawford (and it’s a whole lot cheaper than talking to a therapist).

So, set up the DVD player or download one of these films from iTunes (AAPL) for a marathon of MainStreet favorite movie maternal antiheros.

White Heat (1949) A psychopathic killer with bizarre affinity for his equally creepy mother.

Cinderella (1950)

This is where the entire evil stepmother stigma started. Cinderella is banished to scrubbing the floors while stepsisters Drizella and Anastasia take advantage of her father’s fortune.

Psycho (1960)

A psychopathic killer with bizarre affinity for his equally creepy mother, with a super scary shower scene.

The Manchurian Candidate (1962)

In this Cold War satire, Eleanor Shaw (played by Angela Lansbury) manipulates her son to fulfill her personal agenda of overthrowing the government.

Murmur of the Heart (1971)

In this French film by Louis Malle, a 15-year-old boy ends up having relations with his mother in a sanatorium. More than enough said.

Mommie Dearest (1981)

Hide the wire hangers and revel in the fact Joan Crawford isn’t your mother.

The Goonies (1985)

And you thought your mother was controlling: In this 80s classic, gang leader Mama Fratelli confines her son Sloth with chains.

Throw Momma From The Train (1987)

This movie ma is so domineering, her sheepish son plots to have her killed.

Serial Mom (1994)

When a teacher criticizes happy homemaker Beverly Sutphin’s (played by Kathleen Turner) son, she goes on a killing spree.

Igby Goes Down (2002)

Susan Sarandon plays a cruel, disengaged mother who controls people as if they were her puppets.

Happy Anti-Mother's Day!

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