On a busy street in Belfast, filmmaker Myrid Carten came across a woman sitting on a bench, identified as her mother. Her mother, Nuala, was slouched in her grey hoody-clad figure, clutching a bottle of red wine, and onlookers showing little to no interest in her condition. Myrid faced the ethical challenge of keeping her camera focused on her mother - a task which she admits made her feel guilty afterwards. This intricate relationship marked by delicate balances marks the backbone of her documentary "A Want in Her".
The docu-film is an emotionally intense introspection of familial relationships tainted by alcoholism and mental health issues. Carten’s work vividly ties art and narrative to share her personal experiences and struggles with Nuala's addiction. The narrative strains from a series of recorded voicemails and despairing phone conversations that expose the family’s long-term struggle with Nuala's alcoholic habits.
The family's uncle, Danny, another victim of psychiatric illnesses, describes their family predisposition to alcoholism as genetic. The disgruntled undercurrent within the family, legacies, and fractured relationships add to the burden that Carten and her family bear while trying to help Nuala.
Furthermore, a heart-breaking archival footage of a vibrant and focused Nuala involved in social volunteer work further intensifies the tragic irony. The documentary also highlights the somber realities of Nuala's denial or forgetfulness about her corrosive effect on her family due to her alcoholism and struggling mental health.
The distressing themes are accompanied by artful visual metaphors like a shot of dirty curtains hiding the pain within the household or pockets of mold and damp plaster symbolizing a house defined by neglect.
Despite its tragic narrative, "A Want in Her" also showcases a collaborative effort between Myrid and Nuala dedicated to understanding her mother's journey through her addiction. The closing scenes feature a stark rendition of the Irish folk ballad, "The Wild Rover", reflecting on the uncertain future of Nuala's rehabilitation. This poignant documentary underlines the complex relationship between Myrid and Nuala, revealing their shared pain caused by Nuala's addiction, ingrained in their bond of love.
