Donegal Filmmaker Myrid Carten Wins Big at British Independent Film Awards

Donegal filmmaker Myrid Carten achieved significant recognition at the British Independent Film Awards (BIFAs), where her debut film, A Want in Her, won three prestigious honors. The awards, announced recently, celebrate independent cinema and highlight the creativity emerging from filmmakers working with limited resources.

Triumphant Wins for a Personal Story

A Want in Her, released in cinemas in October 2023, is a poignant and unflinching exploration of Carten’s relationship with her mother, Nuala Carten, who struggles with alcoholism. The film not only took home the award for Best Debut Director – Feature Documentary but also won Best Feature Documentary and the Raindance Maverick Award, which recognizes independent films created on modest budgets.

The narrative follows Myrid as she returns from London to her hometown of Gortahork in search of her mother, who has gone missing. The story is set against the backdrop of summer 2020 when Nuala disappeared from Derry. Myrid’s journey leads her through familial conflicts, a contested inheritance, and a past filled with challenges that threaten to engulf her.

A Deeply Personal Journey

Myrid Carten’s film stands out for its raw and honest portrayal of complex relationships. It brings to light the struggles faced by individuals dealing with addiction and the ripple effects on their families. Through her lens, viewers gain insight into the emotional turmoil experienced during the search for a loved one lost to addiction.

The recognition at the BIFAs not only affirms Carten’s storytelling abilities but also shines a light on the importance of independent cinema in addressing pressing social issues. Carten’s work resonates with audiences, offering both a personal narrative and a broader commentary on familial bonds and the impact of addiction.

As the film industry continues to evolve, A Want in Her exemplifies the power of heartfelt storytelling and the potential for independent filmmakers to make a significant impact. Carten’s success at the BIFAs serves as an inspiration for aspiring filmmakers around the world.

With these accolades, Myrid Carten has established herself as a noteworthy voice in cinema, poised to influence future narratives within the industry.