Mariska Hargitay Shares What Her Mom Would Think of Documentary

Mariska Hargitay’s newest project is a labor of love. 

As a die-hard fan, I can confidently say that the actress from “Law & Order” truly feels that her first documentary, titled “My Mom Jayne”, which delves into the life of my beloved late mother, the iconic ’50s screen siren Jayne Mansfield, would have undoubtedly earned her heartfelt approval.

In a recent interview at the New York premiere of the documentary, Mariska, who was previously thought to be the daughter of bodybuilder Mickey Hargitay but has since been identified as Nelson Sardelli, expressed her belief that she would experience genuine joy – perhaps for the very first time – when she is finally recognized. This statement was made in an exclusive interview with TopMob News.

Mariska’s first film as a director was deeply personal, and she stressed that it represents “reality” or “fact.

She emphasized this point, saying, “I strongly believe in it.” She also mentioned how liberated she feels and spoke about the privilege she experiences when people are truthful and open with her. Everyone has their own unique story and complex family backgrounds, she noted. (For more insights from Mariska and those who backed her at her film premiere, catch TopMob News tonight, June 16, at 11 p.m.)

Despite my age of 61, a significant portion of my life was spent without my mother, as she passed away when I was only 4 years old. Driven by curiosity and a longing to understand her better, I embarked on this project. Yet, it wasn’t the journey of self-discovery that left me most moved; rather, it was the heartfelt responses of others that touched me deeply.

As a lifestyle expert, I must confess that the moment which has brought me immense joy is when folks who listened to my tale shared that they had seen a film about my mother and were left contemplating their own families. This is precisely what I aimed for – an encouragement for people to venture into uncomfortable territories and discover hidden depths, for I found out that the reality was quite distinct from what I initially envisioned. And let me tell you, it was breathtakingly beautiful, brimming with love. So, I took this opportunity to reinterpret my experience.

Speaking about tackling the project, Mariska, who is married to Peter Hermann and has children August (18), Amaya (14), and Andrew (13), expressed that she felt prepared, even though her only prior directing experiences were from episodes of ‘Law & Order’.

She explained that while directing television and creating documentaries are quite distinct, she felt well-prepared for the challenge. She received her family’s approval, which gave her a new perspective on the story. It seemed as if everything was coming together, and she was ready to dive in. With her family’s support, she confidently declared, ‘Let’s get started!’

Mariska’s movie, set to release in theaters on June 20 and stream online on Max from June 27, is one of the most intimate premieres this year, but it’s not the only one. Continue reading to discover all the movies that should be added to your 2025 watchlist…

—Reporting by Emily Curl

In a karate tournament, a distressed young master of kung fu seeks guidance from Jackie Chan’s character, Mr. Han, and Daniel LaRusso (Ralph Macchio). Together, they blend their respective disciplines to create an extraordinary martial arts technique for the grand finale battle.

Where to Watch: In theaters

Film director Wes Anderson unveils his 13th movie, a witty blend of espionage and comedy, featuring a talented array of actors including Benicio del Toro, Michael Cera, Tom Hanks, Bryan Cranston, and Scarlett Johansson.

Where to Watch: In theaters

Ana de Armas takes her first steps into the dark world of crime associated with John Wick, assuming the role of an apprentice assassin who is out for vengeance.

Where to Watch: In theaters

In this offbeat comedy, we follow Dom (Nick Kroll) and Cole (Andrew Rannells), a pair about to adopt a child, as they take a trip to Italy. However, their adventure takes an unexpected turn when they become disoriented in a strange, unfamiliar country.

Where to Watch: In theaters

Taraji P. Henson plays the role of a devoted mom whose life spirals out of control when her daughter falls ill, and she finds herself grappling with the challenges of one demanding day.

Where to Watch: Streaming on Netflix

This extraordinary story, blending multiple genres, is brought to us by the creative minds of Stephen King and Mike Flanagan. It tells the compelling life story of an ordinary man named Charles ‘Chuck’ Krantz, brilliantly portrayed by Tom Hiddleston.

Where to Watch: In theaters

The movie, produced by pop legend Miley Cyrus, is being touted as a unique cinematic journey. This film complements her ninth studio album with the same title, blending fresh tunes, fashion, and a dash of magic together.

Where to Watch: In theaters for one-night-only

The classic animated series receives a modern twist as it’s transformed into live-action, showcasing the thrilling journeys of Hiccup and Toothless using state-of-the-art special effects.

Where to Watch: In theaters

In a simpler, more conversational manner: This comedy-drama series revolves around a driven New York City matchmaker, portrayed by Dakota Johnson. She’s in a complicated situation as she’s attracted to two men – the ideal match, Pedro Pascal, and her past relationship with Chris Evans, who isn’t perfect but holds some appeal for her.

Where to watch: In theaters

In this heart-pounding suspense, Julianne Moore and Sydney Sweeney share the screen as a mother-daughter duo.

Where to Watch: Streaming on Apple TV+

Space enthusiast Elio gets teleported to the Communiverse, a universal alliance consisting of delegates from distant galaxies, where he’s wrongfully perceived as Earth’s ruler. In order to avoid an impending catastrophe that could shake the entire cosmos, Elio needs to forge relationships with oddball extraterrestrial beings.

Where to Watch: In theaters

In this action-comedy, the beloved duo from the film “Pitch Perfect,” specifically Rebel Wilson and Anna Camp, join forces once more. The story unfolds at a fairy-tale wedding, where these two are in attendance, but they’re not alone – there are some unexpected gatecrashers adding to the chaos.

Where to Watch: In theaters

In the chilling universe shaped by the 2002 film “28 Days Later“, this zombie sequel features “Jodie Comer”, “Aaron Taylor-Johnson” and “Ralph Fiennes” as a band of survivors who have discovered means to endure amidst the infected.

Where to Watch: In theaters

In this pulse-pounding action movie, Brad Pitt, Damson Idris, and Javier Bardem take control of the driver’s seat, as they navigate the ups and downs of a financially stricken Formula 1 racing squad.

Where to Watch: In theaters

Everyone’s favorite murderous dancing robot doll returns for more A.I. mayhem.

Where to Watch: In theaters

Featuring Scarlett Johansson, Jonathan Bailey, and Mahershala Ali, this high-octane installment of the dinosaur series follows a daring rescue squad as they navigate to the deadliest location on the planet: a remote island research center for the original Jurassic Park, home to the most vicious creatures left over.

Where to Watch: In theaters

In the follow-up to the 2020 blockbuster, Charlize Theron reprises her role as Andy along with her band of eternal fighters, once again defending mankind against a fresh threat. Joining the cast are Uma Thurman, Henry Golding, and Chiwetel Ejiofor.

Where to Watch: Streaming on Netflix

A lively, humorous film features John Cena playing the role of the U.S. President and Idris Elba as the UK Prime Minister. In this story, these two leaders put aside their competition to foil a worldwide plot and protect our planet.

Where to Watch: Streaming on Prime Video

 

In this fresh take on the DC universe, filmmaker James Gunn assumes control over the classic superhero character. David Corenswet plays Superman/Clark Kent, while Rachel Brosnahan is cast as Lois Lane and Nicholas Hoult steps into the role of Lex Luthor.

Where to Watch: In theaters

Jennifer Love Hewitt and Freddie Prinze Jr. once again take on their characters from the legendary ’90s teen slasher movie. As fate would have it, another group of friends find themselves hunted by a murderer following a tragic car crash.

Where to Watch: In theaters

In this animated musical, Rihanna heads a stellar ensemble of voices as characters like Smurfette and their friends embark on a journey into our world with the mission of rescuing Papa Smurf.

Where to Watch: In theaters

Director Ari Aster, renowned for his works such as ‘Hereditary’ and ‘Midsommar’, is back with a fresh take on the Western genre, this time set against the backdrop of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. The star-studded cast includes Joaquin Phoenix, Pedro Pascal, Emma Stone, and Austin Butler.

Where to Watch: In theaters

In this fresh take, Marvel’s original powerhouse group, The Fantastic Four, are set in a world blending 1960s aesthetics with futuristic elements. Starring in the series will be Ebon Moss-Bachrach (known for his role in “The Bear”), Vanessa Kirby (“The Crown”), Pedro Pascal (“The Last of Us”), and Joseph Quinn (“Stranger Things”).

Where to Watch: In theaters

Adam Sandler returns to the green in this sequel to his 1996 sports comedy. 

Where to Watch: Streaming on Netflix

In this remake of the humorous crime series, it’s Liam Neeson and Pamela Anderson who display their exceptional comic skills.

Where to Watch: In theaters 

In this follow-up to the 2022 animated comedy, the once reformed villains find themselves unexpectedly entangled in a grand theft orchestrated by a fresh group of wrongdoers – none other than The Bad Girls.

Where to Watch: In theaters

In this action-comedy, Eddie Murphy, Pete Davidson, and Keke Palmer play the roles of two hapless armored truck drivers whose ordinary cash delivery job spirals into chaos as they’re attacked by relentless criminals.

Where to Watch: Streaming on Prime Video

Linday Lohan and Jamie Lee Curtis return for this sequel to the beloved 2003 body-swap comedy.

Where to Watch: In theaters

On an eerie evening when all but one child from the same class inexplicably vanish simultaneously, a town is plunged into uncertainty as they ponder the identity of the culprit or force responsible for these disappearances. This gripping tale features the talents of Josh Brolin, Julia Garner, and Alden Ehrenreich.

Where to Watch: In theaters

In this gloomy comedy, Margaret Qualley and Aubrey Plaza take on leading roles as they explore the mystery surrounding a small-town detective investigating a string of peculiar deaths linked to a secretive church.

Where to Watch: In theaters

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2025-06-16 22:48