Programme of Events

A premier selection of films addressing the subject of consciousness and imagination. Through these works we examine the age-old struggle to define human consciousness, from Aristotle and Plato to Einstein and modern philosophers. This unique selection from international film-makers looks at what it is that makes us human and the role of imagination in propelling conscious thought. Our programme opens with abNormal by Barry J. Gibb, Film and Multimedia Director at the Wellcome Trust.

“Are you normal? What does it mean to be normal? Is it a good thing, or does it mean you’re just plain dull. Is being abnormal more fun, does it make us seem more kooky, quirky, individual – or could it mean we’re cut off from society, perceived as odd or even mentally ill? “

abNormal is an exploration and celebration of what it means to be normal. Examined through the eyes of several very different minds, with their own unique talents and perspectives, abNormal points a microscope at human behaviour, asking viewers to question their perceptions of others, and themselves. Beyond individuals, as society marches inevitably towards a suburban future, the film asks: Is society itself destined to slide into a bland state of normality – or are we instead threatening our mental health by the way we live our lives? Barry J. Gibb received the Nature People’s Choice Award 2011 at Imagine Science Films New York for his film Until. Join us for a programme that will look at the unique nature of consciousness, normality and human and artificial intelligence.

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