User reviews

I recently got a chance to see a screening of "Cotton" at the Milledgeville Film Festival. I went in with literally no expectations other than that Gary Cole, an actor I'm a fan of, was in it. Overall, the performances themselves are what make this film. Gary Cole gives what may actually be one of his better performances as the well-meaning father Clay Peaks. It's a different role for him, and one that he plays with subtlety and restraint. I generally think of him as a comic actor, but after having seen this film, I wouldn't mind seeing some more dramatic work from him.

Relative unknown Erik Smith plays the title character of Cotton Welles. Despite the marketing mainly focusing on Cole, this is Smith's movie. Cotton could have been a flat character, but Smith's nuanced performance gives him a certain depth and a great deal of relatability. Lusia Strus also gives a solid performance as the antagonist, Smith's overbearing mother. She chews the scenery much more than the other performers and the end result is actually very powerful and memorable.

The story itself is where it falls flat. Cotton Welles is a genuine faith healer who runs away from his ability only to have his mother track him down and try to force him to use it, growing more and more desperate. The plot beats themselves are very predictable and occasionally fall into clichés, including a completely shoehorned romantic subplot that felt awkward and rushed. The movie is competently directed and has good cinematography, but it just doesn't do anything new in terms of storytelling. Ultimately, I'm glad I got to see this film, but it was more for the performances themselves than for the actual script. If nothing else it's worth seeing Gary Cole tackle a purely dramatic role.

Not the best acting but then again the writer has some terrible people to portray.

Still enjoyed it for the most part.

Sadly I was more horrified by the attempt by the film makers to make the home look like a Victorian. Why would you add those brackets to that barn. Absolutely horrendous. 😂

Yep that's what strict me the most out of this film.

I cannot get over the obvious age difference between Max and Cotton period I am so creeped out it's like a mother molesting her child pain other than that the movie is good.

Truly enjoyed watching this superbly directed family friendly film! Wish they would make more like this. Researched to find other films by this director and found "Musical Chairs"--another great one! Both have fantastic actors and heart warming story. A refreshing change from many of the current options out there.

I had the opportunity to see Cotton at the Traildance Film Fest in 2015. The premise of the film grabbed my attention right away. Having Gary Cole as one of the leads added to my interest in seeing the film. A young faith healer who is somewhat reluctant to accept his special abilities leaves his dysfunctional home and mother to find a more " normal" life. His mother pursues him and tries to exploit him for her personal gain. The acting,, especially Gary Cole as the father and Erik Smith as Cotton are convincing and hold your attention. An actress named Lucia Strus almost steals the movie however as Cottons mother. This movie cleaned up at that film fest,, winning Best Director (Marty Madden) best in festival and Best Actor (Erik Smith). The film went on to win other awards at various film fests in 2015.

I really enjoyed this film and would recommend it to anyone searching for deeper meaning in life and the need to pause and appreciate the small miracles many of us sometimes overlook. The story is well crafted and the dialogue quickly draws you into the film. The director seems to have a gift for storytelling, the story left me engaged and anxious to see what was around the corner. The mother has an amazing performance in the film, her range as an actress is really highlighted in her high energy revival scenes. Zoe Perry also shines in the film, she radiates love and tenderness throughout which is truly contagious. Overall, I found the film beautifully written and I walked away wondering what miracles have I been overlooking in my life.

If you're a healer, you have a choice to make - to lead a selfless life entirely devoted to the healing of others, or living a normal life like everyone else, which can only be achieved by hiding your gift. This movie does an excellent job portraying this. Great acting, great everything. Box of tissues needed.

This is by far one of the best film's I've seen in awhile. It feels good to watch a family friendly movie. This movie was so inspirational from the beginning to the end. It's amazing to know that when God is a part of a movie it always good and always have a clear message.