Hot Docs, The Canadian International Documentary Festival, runs April 28-May 8. In our new series, we talk to the directors of the films you won’t want to miss. 

In Mallory a down-and-out but determined Czech woman finds herself living in a car and desperately trying to kick drugs after the birth of her son. Over the course of thirteen, we see her courageous drive to turn her life around. We spoke with director Helena Třeštíková last week.

SDTC: Why were you personally drawn to this subject?

HT: What made Mallory interesting for me was her originality, which she uses to pass on her story, and the way she comments on events we went through together. She was always able to reflect on the situation she was going through, which was usually pretty dramatic.

What did you learn about yourself over the course of making this film?

That’s an interesting question to ask. I was thinking of how every person is responsible for their own destiny and has the inner power for change. I reflected that on myself and tried to explore my own inner powers.

What did you learn about the nature of addiction?

Mallory described preciously the burden of the abstinence. I’ve never heard anybody describe it so accurately.

What do you want people to take away from this film?

I am glad when the audience thinks of my stories. The story of Mallory talks about hope and chance for a change. That’s the message to the audience.

Mallory screens on May 4th at Scotiabank Theatre & May 6th at TIFF Bell Lightbox.