A neuroscientist from Sussex appears in a new film examining dementia and the nature of consciousness.

Professor Anil Seth, connected to the University of Sussex, stars in Conscious, which debuted globally at the acclaimed CPH:DOX documentary festival in Copenhagen.

The film, crafted over eight years, documents the lives of three women affected by dementia while integrating Professor Seth’s scientific and personal investigation into consciousness.

Professor Seth stated that while dementia research has progressed significantly, the enigmas of the mind are so vast that multiple approaches are necessary. He explained that in trying to comprehend brain fog, cognitive deterioration, and memory loss, the study of consciousness provides a novel angle for tackling one of humanity’s most profound puzzles. He posed questions about personal identity and what existence becomes when one’s sense of self dissolves.

The professor leads the Sussex Centre for Consciousness Science and has received the Royal Society’s Michael Faraday award for science communication.

The documentary marks the first feature-length work by London artist and filmmaker Suki Chan.

Ms Chan explained that Conscious represents an eight-year investigation into the boundaries of human consciousness as memory deteriorates and identity breaks apart. She described how her upbringing between Western and Chinese cultures, with deep respect for elderly family members, and caring for her grandmother during childhood, shaped every aspect of this project. She pursued her instincts to understand both the resilience and vulnerability of the human mind. She stated that this film represents the outcome of that search: a cinematic inquiry into what occurs when one’s familiar world retreats.

Employing immersive audio design and experimental visual methods, the documentary seeks to transport audiences into the internal experiences of dementia.

The initiative originated from Ms Chan’s artist placement at a care home village in Crewe.

Conscious received backing from Screen Scotland, BFI Doc Society, and Sundance/Sandbox Films.

Worldwide distribution rights are managed by Aconite Productions.

The film premiered at CPH:DOX with showings on Saturday March 14 and Tuesday March 24.

Information regarding the UK premiere will be announced shortly.