Exploring the Depths of Consciousness: An Interview with 'Conscious' Director Suki Chan
In the realm of cinema, few topics are as captivating and complex as the human brain. The mysteries of consciousness, the intricacies of dementia, and the interplay between science and art are at the heart of Suki Chan's debut feature film, 'Conscious'. This thought-provoking documentary delves into the lives of three women navigating the challenges of dementia, offering a unique perspective on the nature of consciousness and the human experience. We caught up with Suki Chan and editor Michael Ellis to discuss the making of 'Conscious' and their creative journey.
A Personal Journey into the World of Dementia
Suki Chan's fascination with the brain and consciousness stems from a personal place. Growing up in a large family, she was surrounded by older relatives, including her grandmother, who suffered from a gradual physical and mental decline due to dementia. This experience left a profound impact on her, sparking her interest in exploring the complexities of the human mind. Chan's curiosity about the brain intensified during her first pregnancy, prompting her to question her son's sensory experiences in the womb.
"I was inspired by Shakespeare's 'Seven Ages of Man' to view the human lifespan as a series of shifting stages of awareness, with dementia as a later stage of that journey," Chan explains. "My personal background and experiences played a significant role in shaping the film's narrative. I wanted to delve into the lived reality of dementia and how it impacts the lives of those affected, as well as their families and friends."
Blending Science, Mystery, and Personal Stories
'Conscious' is a unique blend of science, mystery, and personal narratives. Chan's approach to storytelling was intentional, aiming to create a cinematic experience that goes beyond traditional medical documentaries. "I've always valued the freedom to weave together seemingly separate disciplines," she says. "I see science and philosophy not as distinct fields but as different lenses through which we contemplate the same mysteries."
The film's visuals and soundscapes are designed to transport viewers into the inner worlds of the protagonists. Chan worked closely with editor Michael Ellis to craft a narrative structure that would effectively convey the emotional journeys of the women in the film. "I wanted to highlight the parallels between the micro and macro, between biology and nature," Chan explains. "The intricate architectures of the brain and the microscopic structure of the eye felt like another world, almost extraterrestrial."
A Collaborative Journey
The collaboration between Chan and Ellis was a natural fit. Ellis was drawn to Chan's work, impressed by her strong visual sense as a camera operator and director. "I looked at Suki's work and was impressed by her strong visual sense, both as a camera operator and director," Ellis says. "The combination of her elements, together with some atmospheric music by Dominik Scherrer, made for an engrossing experience."
Ellis' involvement began with advising and commenting on the work as it progressed. He helped shape the narrative structure and refine the cuts, ensuring the film's storytelling remained engaging and emotionally resonant. "I assembled the initial edit from my script and how I had planned the shoots, and then Michael helped to refine the cuts and later helped shape the narrative structure," Chan shares. "It was wonderful to share this process with Michael, and I've learned so much from working with him."
A New Perspective on Dementia
One of the most striking aspects of 'Conscious' is its fresh perspective on dementia. Chan was surprised to learn about the 'gifts of dementia' from Wendy Mitchell, one of the film's subjects. "Before I began my research, I shared the common assumption that dementia was about memory loss," Chan says. "It was inspiring to hear Wendy speak about the 'gifts of dementia' and how she found silver linings in a cruel disease."
Mitchell's transformation from a reserved and private person to a 'gregarious alien' after her dementia diagnosis was particularly striking. "To witness her transform adversity into a form of personal growth, especially when the public perception of the disease is so bleak, completely changed my perspective," Chan reflects. "It made me realize that dementia can also rid us of our fear and childhood traumas, offering a different narrative to the one commonly associated with the disease."
Looking Ahead
As Chan reflects on the making of 'Conscious', she is already looking ahead to her next project. "I'm currently at a fascinating crossroads," she says. "Part of me wants to continue my exploration into consciousness, expanding into AI or animal consciousness. However, I'm also feeling a strong pull towards a very different, more personal narrative project."
Chan's next venture will be rooted in her own history, drawing on her memories of growing up and working in a Chinese takeaway from the age of 10. "Both paths feel right," she says. "One is a continuation of 'Conscious', and the other is a return to my roots and identity."
'Conscious' is a powerful exploration of the human mind, offering a unique blend of science, art, and personal narratives. Through her work, Suki Chan invites us to contemplate the mysteries of consciousness and the resilience of the human spirit. As the film prepares for its world premiere at the Copenhagen International Documentary Film Festival, it promises to leave a lasting impression on audiences worldwide.
