Mariska Hargitay determinedly surveys the remnants of the majestic house on Sunset Boulevard that she grew up in. Being the youngest daughter of legendary Hollywood bombshell Jayne Mansfield didn’t come with an ordinary childhood — but her young life turned into an emotionally devastating one after Mansfield’s tragic death at the age of 34, when Mariska was only 3 years old. Growing up, Mariska steered clear of all of the sensationalistic details of her mother’s life and career — including the gossip that the media peddled about her. Now, as a prolific actor-director-producer with decades of acclaimed roles and projects under her belt, she is ready to learn more about — and understand — who her mother Jayne truly was. To achieve this, she reconnects with her siblings — as well as with Jayne’s trusted confidante and press secretary, “Rusty” Strait — to navigate these lingering questions and memories about their relationship with Jayne.

Anchored by Hargitay herself, My Mom Jayne powerfully navigates emotional recollections and buried family truths about the iconic Mansfield. With raw intimacy bolstered by never-before-seen photos and personal home movies, Hargitay’s deeply emotional exploration dissects Mansfield’s public and private personas, as secrets are revealed and the siblings work to reclaim what has been painfully lost.—Jose Rodriguez

After the Premiere: Mariska Hargitay in conversation with Griffin Dunne.

Mariska Hargitay