The assured film, immersive and astutely observed, recalls the work of master chronicler Frederick Wiseman …
— Sherri Linden, The Los Angeles Times
A lively and engaging glimpse at Manila maternity ward where overcrowding and limited technological resources have forced some solutions that may not be ideal, but are admirable nonetheless.
— Dennis Harvey, Variety
Motherland not only provides an expressively etched account of specialized medical care, but also a telling perspective on dominant social trends and healthcare policy issues in the Phillippines.
— Justin Lowe, Hollywood Reporter
Though there’s always a sense of chaos, with women giving birth and breastfeeding at every turn, Diaz never loses sight of the truth that these are all individuals, not just statistics.
— Kristen Yoonsoo Kim, Village Voice
Diaz does an excellent job of establishing universal affinity with her subject.
— Kieran Fisher, Nonfics
If Motherland has a message beyond raising awareness of the plight faced by millions of Filipino women, and the ongoing debate around the country’s controversial Reproductive Health Act, it’s that life goes resolutely on.
— Nikki Baughan, Screen International