Canvas

The film introduces the Marino family living in South Florida, highlighting the struggles they face due to mental illness. John, played by Joe Pantoliano, is a working-class father trying to manage his wife Mary's schizophrenia while raising their son Chris.

Mary attempts to bond with her son Chris through her artwork, painting the same beach scene repeatedly. This scene represents one of the last moments she felt connected as a mother, showcasing her longing for better days.

Under the influence of her mental illness, Mary believes she doesn't need her medication and decides to stop taking it. This decision leads to a severe deterioration of her mental state, reflecting the real struggles of those affected by similar conditions.

During a thunderstorm one night, Mary experiences a severe paranoia episode, causing her to accidentally hurt Chris. This tragic event marks a turning point for the family and leads to Mary's hospitalization.

After the incident, Mary is taken to the hospital where she remains for the rest of the film. Her absence profoundly affects both John and Chris, forcing them to confront their struggles without her support.

With Mary hospitalized, John strives to keep the family together, facing the immense challenge alone. He begins to work on building a sailboat as a means of distraction and a way to connect with the memories he shared with Mary.

In an effort to cope, Chris turns to sewing t-shirts for his friends, finding a small measure of success. This new venture represents both his desire to carve out his own identity and the escape he seeks from his family turmoil.

Despite their efforts, John and Chris struggle to connect emotionally, leading to tension in their relationship. This culminates in a destructive moment when Chris tries to destroy the sailboat John has been working on out of anger.

As stress mounts, John loses his job after 15 years at the company, leaving him feeling isolated. This adds financial strain to the family, compounding the existing emotional challenges they face.

After reflecting on their situation, John comes to the important realization that he is all Chris has. This realization prompts him to seek ways to reconnect with his son despite their struggles.

John and Chris start to bond while working on the sailboat together. They share memories and emotions, as Chris creatively uses the canvases of his mother's paintings to patch the sail, symbolizing their connection to her.

In a heartwarming moment, John and Chris finally get to sail the completed boat. This experience serves as a pivotal moment of healing and connection as they share a joyful adventure together.

While sailing, they encounter John's ex-boss and his son stranded without gas. This brief encounter highlights their struggles and serves as a reminder of the lives they once had.

John fulfills a promise to Mary by taking her on the boat, albeit just around the hospital on a trailer. This act of love encapsulates the family's enduring bond despite the challenges they face.