Cert 15
106 mins
BBFC advice: Contains strong sex, strong language, sex references, drug use
Hoorah for Steph Green for tackling an issue as serious as brain damage to a comparatively young stroke victim.
But boo to cinemas for not giving Run & Jump a wider distribution in the UK.
Actually, I have to admit that, although this is a quality drama, it would not look out of place on prime-time TV.
In fact, it boasts one of TV's most well-known stars, Maxine Peake, in one of the lead roles.
She plays the wife of the stroke victim (Edward MacLiam) who is a mere ghost of his former self.
The film opens on her bringing him home from hospital after agreeing that his 'recovery' can be analysed by an American academic (Will Forte).
The boffin makes for a strange house guest who observes the chaos of the new family dynamic in which wife has become nurse maid.
The added complication is the fall-out on the couple's children and, in particular, their teenage son (Brendan Morris).
In the meantime, the victim's parents not only have to cope with the fact their son is a shell but also their suspicions over their daughter-in-law's closeness with her new lodger.
There are a number of high-quality performances but Peake's stand out. Every time there is a dent to her character's naturally upbeat attitude, she bounces back like a rubber ball.
Unfortunately, I have observed families who have suffered similar crises and, quite rightly, this film offers no resolution - because there isn't one. But it is poignant and thought-provoking.
Laughs: none
Jumps: none
Vomit: none
Nudity: none
Overall rating: 8/10