Suki Chan's groundbreaking debut feature film, 'Conscious,' embarks on a profound journey into the enigmatic realm of the human brain, particularly focusing on the intricate tapestry of consciousness and the challenging landscape of dementia. Set to premiere at the 23rd CPH:DOX, the Copenhagen International Documentary Film Festival, this film distinguishes itself from conventional medical documentaries by weaving together scientific exploration with deeply personal stories. Chan's directorial vision, influenced by Shakespeare's 'Seven Ages of Man' and her own family experiences with aging, seeks to reframe our understanding of dementia, portraying it not just as a decline but also as a catalyst for unexpected growth and altered perspectives. The documentary promises an immersive, cinematic experience that challenges viewers to contemplate the strength and fragility of the human mind.

The film addresses two fundamental questions: Can subjective consciousness be objectively examined, and what remains of our identity when our internal world begins to fragment? 'Conscious' tackles these profound inquiries by presenting the lived experiences of three women navigating dementia, alongside the insights of neuroscientist Anil Seth, whose professional and personal life intertwines with the subject matter. The narrative skillfully avoids the clinical coldness of traditional medical documentaries by employing unusual visual aesthetics and rich, layered soundscapes designed to transport the audience into altered states of awareness. This artistic approach allows the film to delve into the mysteries of the brain while maintaining a hopeful and engaging tone, encouraging a deeper empathy and understanding of those affected by dementia.

Suki Chan's motivation for creating 'Conscious' is rooted in both intellectual curiosity and personal history. Her long-standing fascination with perception and the brain became more pronounced during her first pregnancy, prompting questions about pre-natal consciousness. Growing up in a Chinese cultural context that values the wisdom of elders, Chan witnessed the gradual physical and mental decline of her grandmother and, more recently, her own mother's dementia diagnosis. These personal encounters fueled her desire to explore dementia as a unique stage of human awareness, rather than merely a subject of medical study. She intentionally chose dementia over more direct links to consciousness, such as locked-in syndrome, to highlight the complexities and profound implications for understanding the self.

A surprising revelation during Chan's research for the film was the unexpected positive perspectives shared by individuals living with dementia. Pegeen O’Sullivan, whom Chan met during an artist residency, expressed no longer feeling fear, showcasing a less-explored aspect of the condition. Similarly, Wendy Mitchell, a 'Sunday Times' bestselling author and double honorary doctorate recipient, shared how dementia, while challenging, also brought her newfound "gifts," transforming her from a reserved individual into a gregarious person who embraced new experiences, including a charity wing walk. These narratives challenge the prevalent bleak public perception of dementia, illustrating how adversity can, for some, foster personal growth and an expansive new way of being, shifting the focus from decline to discovery.

The collaborative process between Suki Chan and editor Michael Ellis was pivotal in shaping 'Conscious' into its unique form. Chan, an artist by background, approached filmmaking with a desire to integrate seemingly disparate disciplines like science and philosophy. She found that while scientists and artists share a common curiosity about fundamental subjects, their approaches and ultimate goals differ. The film intentionally draws parallels between the micro and macro worlds, likening the intricate architecture of the brain to vast, mysterious landscapes. Ellis, known for his work on mainstream films like 'Superman,' contributed significantly to refining the film's narrative structure and visual impact. Their collaboration, initiated by a chance encounter and a shared artistic vision, transformed Chan's initial assembly into a compelling and emotionally resonant documentary, marked by its distinctive storytelling and visual metaphors, which evoke the inner experiences of those with dementia rather than presenting a clinical overview.

Looking ahead, Suki Chan stands at a fascinating juncture in her career, contemplating future projects that either extend her exploration of consciousness into realms like AI and animal awareness or delve into a more personal narrative rooted in her own history of growing up and working in a Chinese takeaway from the age of ten. This decision reflects her dual interests: continuing the thematic inquiry of 'Conscious' or returning to her foundational identity and experiences. Regardless of her next endeavor, her approach to filmmaking, as demonstrated in 'Conscious,' will undoubtedly continue to blend artistic innovation with profound human narratives, pushing the boundaries of documentary storytelling.