My Lost Russian Mother

Ireland2023documentary86'Focus on Ireland

The Irish director tells a story of siblings adopted by an American family. Gabe dreams of meeting his biological mother and travels to Russia. His visit turns out to be a painful experience – the woman, mired in alcoholism and depression, treats him like a drunken delusion. During his stay, Gabe discovers family secrets, lies and even traces of murder. The documentary, made for over 10 years, is a harrowing tale of a search for identity that leads to a dark, unexpected finale.