Parkinson's UK reclaims the future

This new campaign for British charity Parkinson’s UK is an emotional look at the effects of Parkinson's and the things it can, in time, deny those who live with it. 

Created by Don't Panic London and directed through Sweetshop Productions by Nicolas Jack Davies who, through his own family, has experienced the pain and suffering caused by Parkinson's, the 90-second film celebrates the close bond shared by a father and daughter, shown via a simple game that then becomes the cornerstone of how they connect throughout their lives. But a diagnosis of Parkinson’s stops this game in its tracks and affects the way the two interact.

Parkinson’s symptoms span both motor and non-motor skills, but the spot, called Socks, highlights the emotional effects that come with the loss of motor skills and independence. The aim of the campaign is to show that all is not lost when someone is diagnosed with Parkinson’s and that, by leaving a gift in your will to Parkinson’s UK, you could help give back what Parkinson’s takes.

The film is an emotional journey but doesn’t linger on the loss, instead showing the strength of the individuals who are diagnosed with Parkinson’s and the unwavering resilience and support from those who love and care for them. And, despite the father's deterioration, we’re shown that, in the future, play can again be possible, leaving the audience feeling hopeful that those small but often special moments in our lives can be reclaimed.

“Two years ago we lost my amazing Mum very suddenly due to complications with her Parkinson’s - a little known but quite common cause of death for sufferers that we were unaware of and unprepared for," said Davies. "After Mum died, I thought my contribution to Parkinson’s UK would begin and end with a fundraising 10k run but very fortunately for me I got to use my filmmaking skills (which I dearly hope are better than my running ones) to contribute further with this project. 

"What an incredible honour it has been to work with the creatives on such a brilliant script that cracked the human emotions of Parkinson’s within a family right open in a surprising and loving way. And what a privilege to work closely with Parkinson's UK, who opened their doors for myself and the cast to attend a local group, listen and share stories. And a word for the incredible crew who went above and beyond to shoot it all in a day.”