Directed by Toby Amies
Drako Oho Zarharzar lives in a tiny council flat in Brighton. Documentary maker Toby Amies introduces Drako while he is sitting naked on the beach talking about his tattooed penis and his attitude to life. With his shaved head, meticulously waxed moustache, tattoos, piercings and make-up, he is a truly transgressive bohemian. Apart from the fact that at 75 years of age, Drako is not a well man, his life is defined by amnesia which has severely damaged his short-term memory. His tiny flat is crammed with mementos from his life as a dancer and his fascination with huge penises. Pinned on every available space and hanging from the ceiling are pictures and sayings that he finds pleasurable.
Drako’s wonderland doesn’t please everyone and visitors such as his sister try to impose some order, or at least minimise some of the hazards of his crammed living space. Toby Amies is one of those regular visitors and he becomes one of Drako’s closest friends as he films him over a period of four years. Drako is stubborn and egocentric but also open and honest. Living in the moment and appreciating what life is offering, Drako is a fascinating person.
This movie about brain damage, memory, art, cocks, faith and love screens as part of Revelation Film Festival.
‘The Man Whose Mind Exploded screens on 9 July at Luna Cinema and 12 July at Luna SX.
Lezly Herbert
