About the film
This poignant documentary invites viewers into the magical world of Headway East London’s Day Centre, a sanctuary for over 200 individuals living with Acquired Brain Injury (ABI). ABI is a silent epidemic; every 90 seconds someone from the UK is admitted to hospital with a brain injury.
The film follows the journeys of four day centre members. Yoki, who began as a Headway member, now works with the charity, providing emotional support and advocacy to other brain injury survivors. Dave, a former chauffeur to the rich and famous, has embraced cooking and is developing his artistic talents. Margie, life and soul of the community, who spreads joy through her love for food and music, and Marie-Claire who has rebuilt her life after an aneurysm left her in a coma at forty.
Through their stories, this touching film focuses on the often-hidden nature of acquired brain injury, the cataclysmic effect it has on loved ones and relationships, invisible disability, and creating a new sense of self. The Magic of Chaos offers a glimpse into Headway East London’s Day Centre, where the transformative power of art, music, food, and, above all, community brings light to lives forever changed by brain injury.
About Headway East London
Headway East London is a charity supporting people affected by brain injury. Working across 13 London boroughs we offer specialist support and services for survivors and their family. Headway East London offers therapies, advocacy, family support and community support work alongside our day service: a community venue where people can make the most of their abilities and interests and take part in music, art, dance, cooking and many other activities. They have an onsite art studio, Submit to Love, with the mission ‘discovery through art’. Their vision is to build a community where people with brain injury are valued, respected and able to fulfil their potential.
Sarah Lantsbury, Chief Executive Officer at Headway East London said:
‘I hope this film moves people and makes them think, giving a glimpse of the amazing things people with brain injuries can contribute. More than anything, I want viewers to leave feeling inspired by their strength and the hope they bring to the world.’
About Kit Vincent
Kit Vincent is a London-based award-winning filmmaker and ABI survivor. His films have been supported by BFI Doc Society, Sundance Documentary Film Program, The Whickers, France TV,
Jewish Story Partners and Jewish Film Institute. After being diagnosed with a brain tumour at 24, Kit turned the lens on himself and made his debut feature Red Herring (2023) which documented the absurdity of the things we do to find solace in times of inexplicable tragedy.
Want to find out more?
For more information contact:
Project Manager/ Producer: eva.oddi@headwayeastlondon.org
Comms & Public Engagement Manager: claire.stone@headwayeastlondon.org
Comms & Campaigns Officer: elisa.braglia@headwayeastlondon.org
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