THE DARK GENE

Neurologist Frank Schauder has struggled with depression for years. The search for the causes of his illness leads him into the realm of his own genes and casts light on the changes society faces as a result the progress being made in genetic sequencing.

Frank Schauder is both a doctor and a patient. As a patient, he has struggled with recurring depression for years, as a doctor he wants to find out why. The search for the causes of his illness leads him into the realm of his own genes and casts light on the fundamental changes modern society is facing as a result of the tremendous progress being made in the field of genetic sequencing. This complex subject matter is presented in an understandable and aesthetically fascinating form. Our genetic foundation is visualised with subtle computer animations and input from both scientists and artists. And something that might sound abstract soon raises some of the most fundamental questions: How much do we know about ourselves? How much do we even want to know? Because knowledge equals power – the power to manipulate, control and bring about change, for better and for worse. Who are we really? How much of us is determined by our genes? And is there a 'dark' gene? A wise, thought-provoking film about the micro-world of genetics.