The opening statistics in Monica Strømdahl’s documentary paint a grim picture. Approximately 34 million Americans live in poverty, with many finding shelter in long-term hotels or motels because of the housing crisis. On top of that, one in ten children lives with a parent suffering from alcohol abuse. Twelve-year-old Mikal is one such child, facing the harsh realities of his environment.
Strømdahl met Mikal when he was just 11 years old while working on a related photography project. She spent three years documenting his life with his parents, Tonya and Jason, in a cramped hotel room they call home. The family’s trust in Strømdahl is palpable, as she captured their lives authentically. It’s worth noting that she prioritized consent and waited until Mikal turned 18 to release the film.
The film delves deep into Mikal’s complex family life, filled with love but overshadowed by struggles, particularly Tonya’s alcoholism. Her drinking fuels daily tensions, leading to heated exchanges with Mikal and Jason, who also battles alcohol-related issues.
Strømdahl keeps the camera focused on the family, revealing Mikal’s efforts to adapt to their turbulent lifestyle. His only space for privacy is behind a tattered curtain, and the bathroom is often cluttered with dirty dishes. While the family doesn’t seem to perform for the camera, Mikal sometimes finds comfort in knowing that their reality is being documented.
Mikal expresses himself through poetry, sharing feelings he might otherwise keep hidden. The documentary’s raw portrayal of their circumstances challenges viewers to confront realities often obscured from public view. In exploring their life, Strømdahl presents a compassionate but unflinching look at poverty, addiction, and the complexities of family bonds.
Adding historical context, the U.S. has faced ongoing housing crises since the Great Depression. Today, homelessness and poverty rates have risen, exacerbated by economic shifts and housing shortages. According to the National Alliance to End Homelessness, more than 600,000 people experienced homelessness on a single night in January 2020—a reflection of issues that have grown more acute over the years.
As social media amplifies these discussions, movements for affordable housing and mental health awareness are gaining traction. Many users share personal stories, pushing for policy changes that address these critical issues. Through Mikal’s story, Strømdahl not only sheds light on one family’s challenges but also echoes a national conversation about the urgency of support systems for vulnerable families in America.
For more information on the current state of poverty and homelessness in the U.S., you can refer to the National Alliance to End Homelessness.
