Drawing a blank in New York

British director Rupert Murray's intriguing documentary examines what happened when Doug Bruce, a personable young Englishman living in New York, found himself in the subway not knowing who he was. His memory was suddenly a complete blank.

Fortunately, a friend of a friend was discovered who could identify him. But the effort it took for Bruce to rediscover his previous life, jump through dozens of medical hoops and meet his relatives and friends again - as if for the first time - was mountainous.

Unknown White Male asks, through video diaries, home-video footage and copious interviews with Bruce and others, whether we are the sum of our experiences and relationships or whether personality is something more inherent.

The film's authenticity has been questioned but, whether or not it is a con, it remains an original and thoughtful effort.

Unknown White Male
Cert: 12A