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.
Donor Unknown is a 2010 documentary film directed by Jerry Rothwell and produced by Al Morrow and Hilary Durman. A 21st-century tale of identity and genetic inheritance, this film tells the story of a sperm donor and the children who want to meet him. It follows JoEllen Marsh as she goes in search of the sperm donor father she only knows as Donor 150.
Producers: |
Jim Butterworth
Daniel J. Chalfen
Hilary Durman
Karen Gilchrist
Stewart Le Marechal
Al Morrow
Jonny Persey |
Director: |
Jerry Rothwell |
Editing: |
Allan Mackay
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Others: |
Cast: JoEllen Marsh, Jeffrey Harrison, Danielle Pagano, Fletcher Norris
Music by: Max de Wardener
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Jerry Rothwell is a British documentary filmmaker best known for the award-winning feature docs How to Change the World (2015), Town of Runners (2012), Donor Unknown (2010), Heavy Load (2008) and Deep Water (2006). All of his films have been produced by Al Morrow of Met Film.