Bold and deeply moving, A Want In Her marks Myrid Carten's debut feature as a truly immersive and profoundly personal journey into the complexities of family bonds. But here's where it gets controversial: it doesn’t shy away from the raw, often painful realities that lie beneath the surface of familial love.
This uniquely crafted film showcases the Donegal artist’s decision to turn the camera inward, shining a compassionate yet unflinching light on her own fractured family. Torn apart by grief, disputes over inheritance, and her mother Nuala’s battles with alcoholism and mental health challenges, the film dives into territory that few dare to explore so intimately.
What sets A Want In Her apart from traditional documentaries is its innovative storytelling style. Carten blends deeply personal and sometimes uncomfortable conversations with cinematic 16mm footage that captures the haunting beauty and isolation of the Donegal landscape. Scattered throughout the narrative are nostalgic, almost eerily predictive camcorder tapes from Myrid’s childhood alongside glimpses of her contemporary work as a visual artist. This non-linear and cycling approach skillfully reveals the far-reaching impact of addiction and mental illness on those we hold most dear.
Despite the heavy subject matter, Carten’s touch is light and respectful, peppering moments of dark humor to balance the weight of the story. The overwhelming feeling throughout is one of empathy and respect for her subjects — those who appear both vulnerable and resilient before the camera. It is a powerful, thought-provoking experience.
The story begins with the disappearance of Nuala, which prompts Myrid’s return to Donegal from London. This event forces her to confront both the physical search for her mother and the emotional turmoil within her family. Here, the film reveals intricate family dynamics: her uncle Danny, coping with his own mental health struggles, squats in an overgrown caravan on land owned by his brother Kevin. Kevin, who inherited their family home and land after their mother’s passing, is visibly worn down by the heavy responsibility of looking after his sister.
At its core, A Want In Her explores the challenging question of how to love those who are dealing with pain and addiction without losing your own identity and sense of self in the process. Unlike many films that offer neat solutions, it refuses to give easy answers, instead inviting viewers to reflect deeply on these difficult themes.
And this is the part most people miss: are we prepared to face uncomfortable truths about family, loyalty, and mental health? Do we understand the full toll of caring for others when they are struggling? The film boldly raises these questions, opening a space for viewers to discuss and debate. Where do you stand on the fine line between compassion and self-preservation? Your thoughts could spark a necessary conversation.
