The UK government has addressed the statistic that 1 in 6 people in England will have a stroke in their lifetime with the Act FAST campaign. The acronym serves to remind the public of the symptoms of a person who is suffering from a stroke. Nick Connor’s film, ‘Cotton Wool’, explores the aftermath of such an event, which ultimately leaves two children as full time carers for their mother. A situation such as this may seem extreme, however, there are 243,000 people under the age of 19 classed as carers in the UK and Wales. Over 22,000 are under the age of 9. These statistics set Connor’s film in a harsh reality that adds greater depth to the emotion so expertly crafted by the cast.
‘Cotton Wool’ demonstrates the lack of support available for families in situations like Rachel (Leanne Best), Sam (Max Vento) and Jennifer (Katie Quinn). With no family to assist, Rachel’s teenage daughter and young son become her carers. As Jennifer struggles through her own turbulent teenage angst, it leaves Sam to pick us the emotional and physical support of his mother almost entirely alone. The shock of seeing a young child adopt such an adult role may initially be overshadowed by the desire to focus on the angelic nature of Sam. The heart-warming interactions with his mother are indeed very touching but looking at the larger picture, it is troubling to see someone so young give up so much. In spite of this, the few people who do come to help Rachel with her rehabilitation are all filled with a warmth and care. The film is not necessarily a criticism of nursing or care for those with long term conditions but a reflection on the effects it can have on a fragile family and the fact that certain circumstances are not catered to appropriately.
In a touching scene of realisation and self-reflection, Jennifer apologises to her mother and promises to help more with her rehabilitation. The fragments of their family are bound together with love as the statue that Sam accidentally breaks is bound together with PVA glue. The reunification of family and an unwritten decision to help and support one another provides a beautiful denouement, accompanied by a bright, sunlit display of genuine happiness.
Nick Connor has drawn together all aspects of his film into a touching and compelling narrative. The performance of Leanne Best deserves a special mention for her grasp of the spectrum of emotions from utter despair to true joy. The soundtrack, composed by Benjamin Squires, is also noteworthy in its simplistic parallels to the film’s visual and thematic style.
Watch the trailer!