Donor Unknown

Feature Documentary • 2011 • 80’ • UK

For the first time in history a generation of children born through artificial insemination are old enough to search for their biological fathers. DONOR UNKNOWN will follow two young people as they first decide and then travel to meet their father for the first time and as they navigate the increasingly complex maze of new and constantly evolving family relationships.

In the past, parents of donor-conceived children were encouraged to stay silent to protect the child. Now, there is more emphasis on openness and honesty, and on the rights of children to know their genetic parents. But this is unknown territory, the first generation of children making an extraordinary journey through a minefield of secret hopes and potential disappointment.

Director:
Jerry Rothwell

Producers:
Hilary Durman, Al Morrow

Executive Producer:
Jonny Persey

Partners:
Arte G.E.I.E, More 4, VPRO, Sundance Institute Documentary Film Programme, Gucci Tribeca Documentary Fund, Wellcome Trust, Naked Edge Films