For every person with a drinking problem in the UK, five other people on average are affected; Director Rollo Hollins addresses this insight from charity, Al-Anon, directly in his new powerful music video for Bear’s Den’s track ‘Hiding Bottles’. In scenes that will sadly be familiar to many, the film centres on a family grappling with the impact of alcohol abuse.
Drawing inspiration from real case studies, the candid film uses the theme of doubles to explore how alcoholism often leads to fractured realities for its victims and their loved ones. Scenes of apparent ‘normal’ family life and bright smiles in home-video footage are juxtaposed with tense scenes of irresponsible parenting and arguments, unnervingly brought to life by the cast’s extraordinary performances.