A daughter goes home to face the family tragedy that broke everything.

“Hearse Chasing,” the new documentary from director Teresa Alfeld, follows singer-songwriter Cassidy Waring as she returns to Calgary with her brother Cooper to confront their mother’s death and the violence that led to it. The film screens at VIFF Centre on Mother’s Day, May 10th, with a live performance from Waring and her band.

Growing up in 90s suburban Calgary, Waring’s family looked stable until addiction and abuse shattered it. Years later, now deep into her music career, she’s diagnosed with Complex PTSD and starts unpacking what really happened. Through therapy sessions, home movies, and her songwriting process, the film traces what healing actually looks like when the past won’t stay buried.

The doc premieres on TELUS Optik TV and TELUS Stream+ on May 13th, then drops free on YouTube the same night during Mental Health Awareness Month. A live chat will run alongside the online premiere.

“My relationship with my mom is such a big part of both the film and my music,” Waring says. “I know this day can bring love and celebration, but also grief and heartache.”

Waring’s new album, “If I Had Only Been Better,” digs deeper into her experience with complex trauma. For indie artists turning their pain into art, this one hits close.