Skip to main content

Deep Dive: The Man Whose Mind Exploded (2021)

Film Lens

The Man Whose Mind Exploded
The Man Whose Mind Exploded is a documentary directed by Toby Amies that focuses on Drako Oho Zarharzar, who suffers from anterograde amnesia following a severe head injury. The film captures Drako's unique perspective on life as he can recall memories from before his accident but cannot form new ones. His home, filled with a collage of memories and art, serves as a metaphor for his mind, illustrating his attempt to live in the present despite his memory loss. Filmed over four years, the documentary shifts from exploring Drako's colorful past, including his connections to Salvador Dalí and The Rolling Stones, to a more intimate portrayal of his daily life. As the director becomes more involved in Drako's world, the boundaries between filmmaker and subject blur, leading to a deeper understanding of Drako's condition and his approach to life.

Why Watch

  • Meet Drako Oho Zarharzar's extraordinary mind.
  • See the impact of memory loss on daily life.
  • Follow a unique relationship between filmmaker and subject.

Did You Know

Drako Oho Zarharzar modeled for Salvador Dalí in the past.
The film premiered at the Sheffield Doc/Fest in 2013.
The documentary was initially a BBC Radio 4 program in 2008.
The film received 4-star reviews from four major UK publications.

Perfect For

Documentary enthusiastsFans of eccentric personalitiesThose interested in memory and identity