The Story of Looking

Mark Cousins prepares for surgery to restore his vision while exploring how visual experiences shape our identities. Through a rich array of imagery, he reflects on the complexities of seeing and the emotions tied to it, emphasizing the impact of looking on human experience, empathy, and discovery.

Set against the backdrop of the COVID-19 pandemic, Cousins connects with others who share their visions from lockdown. He contemplates the future of his own visual journey, making this documentary a poignant reflection on the power of sight and the importance of perception in a world inundated with images. The film showcases a kaleidoscope of extraordinary visuals across cultures and eras, enhancing its exploration of how looking defines us.