You Are Not My Mother

About 'You Are Not My Mother'

You Are Not My Mother is a thrilling horror-drama released in 2021. Directed by Kate Dolan and set in a North Dublin housing estate, this film brings to the fore a tale of a family crises intersecting with cryptic, terrifying paranormal instances.

The film follows Char, a high school student, whose mother Angela suddenly disappears. Soon after, Angela returns home unexplainably, but her odd conduct confirms she isn't the same woman. Char takes it upon herself to solve the mysterious change in her mother's behaviour that points towards the eerie. The narrative of the film plays out brilliantly, weaving in Irish folkloric elements with ominous themes of possession, eerie rituals, and the foreboding May Day parade. The story brilliantly deals with real-world anxieties through a supernatural lens.

Making / Production

This film is a result of Kate Dolan's strong vision, who apart from directing, also wrote the script, weaving Irish folklore with contemporary horror. The blend of horror and drama is presented with a real sense of place and time, adding favourable elements of suspense and fright. The film was produced by Deirdre Levins and produced by Fantastic Films.

Actors

• Hazel Doupe - Played the role of Char. She brought a convincing performance, effectively capturing the fear, despair and determination of a young girl trying to save her transformed mother.
• Carolyn Bracken - Played the role of Angela, Char's mother. Bracken displayed the striking transition from a concerned mother to an unrecognisable entity with commendable precision.
• Ingrid Craigie - Portrayed the character of Rita, adding a supporting but significant touch to the plot.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• 'You Are Not My Mother' is Kate Dolan's debut feature film.
• The movie premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival in 2021.
• The folkloric heritage effortlessly fused into the plot is highly representative of Irish culture.

Music, Soundtrack

• The music and soundtrack of 'You Are Not My Mother' were composed by Hugh Drumm and Stephen Rennicks, whose dissonant score adds to the film's creepy atmosphere.