Frozen in Time: British Man Opts for Cryonic Preservation in Oscar-Contending Documentary “Eternal Father”
In the 2732, the body of Nasar Ghafoor, a man from the 21st century, is revived after spending centuries frozen in time. As futuristic medical technologies work to reawaken him, this remarkable journey reflects Ghafoor’s commitment to cryonic preservation after his death. This fascinating concept is explored in the Oscar-shortlisted documentary Eternal Father, where Ghafoor, a simple man with no billionaire status, chooses to freeze his body in hopes of future reanimation.
Defying Stereotypes: Nasar Ghafoor’s Cryonic Decision
Nasar Ghafoor, an installation engineer from Manchester, England, defies the stereotypical idea of who might pursue cryonics. He isn’t a billionaire visionary but a modest, family-oriented man in his late 50s, committed to living longer for his loved ones. “Who wants to die? If there was a way of cheating death, why not?” he says of his decision. His wife, much younger than him, and his children, motivate him to explore ways to extend life, including the possibility of cryonic preservation.
After coming across the concept of cryonics, Ghafoor decided to take a bold step. “I want to be here longer,” he shares, hoping that he can someday be revived and possibly offer the same opportunity to his family. As he explains, if science advances enough in the future, his family could follow suit if they wish to do so.
The Reality of Cryonics: Life After Death?
In Eternal Father, Ghafoor candidly explains the process of cryonic preservation: once he is legally declared dead, his body will be submerged in an ice bath, his blood drained, and replaced with an antifreeze solution. He will then be stored at a cryonics facility in Michigan at temperatures as low as -196°C. The cost of this preservation can vary significantly, from around $20,000 to $200,000, depending on the service package. Ghafoor has opted for life insurance to cover these costs.
While the documentary explores the emotional impact on his family, it also sheds light on the uncertain nature of cryonics. The film emphasizes the fact that cryonics companies don’t promise reanimation; instead, they promise to store the body until science evolves enough to possibly revive it in the future.
Eternal Father, which is available for free on The New Yorker’s website and YouTube channel, offers an intimate look into Ghafoor’s decision and the wider human desire to extend life.
