Mary's Tree
MARY’S TREE
Mary’s Tree is a short documentary telling the story of Mary from Cape Clear, Co. Cork, the most southern island off the coast of Ireland. She was trapped in an abusive marriage, and the laws of Ireland at the time did not offer her any form of escape. Mary was forced to flee the island that she loved, leaving behind her children. Yet after many years, Mary found healing and reconciliation with her body, her children, and her land.
Director’s Statement
Mary’s Tree is the outcome of an intergenerational, cross-cultural friendship. I met Mary during a visit to Cape Clear in 2010. She graciously sat next to me when she saw that I was alone in a pub. We became fast friends as we shared stories about our lives with each other. Our friendship continued beyond that initial visit until she died in 2014.
Mary and I decided to make a film together about her experience of domestic violence. Though it was difficult for her to relive these traumatic memories, she wanted her story to help other women. She wanted to give survivors hope that they too can overcome their trauma and find their way back to restoration and healing.
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