Modern Times — Season 10

Mar 2000

Mar 2000

In the first of five new programmes, the controversial documentary strand investigates the practice of paying women to donate their eggs. Although illegal in Britain, it is big business in California. Egg-donor agencies help couples find the perfect donor, who can pick up $3,000-$50,000. This programme follows a couple, who have had one child using another woman's eggs, as they try to pay for another, while their original donor meets the child who is, genetically speaking, hers.

Mar 2000

Sugar Reef is the latest and biggest mega-restaurant to be opened in London's West End. For restaurateur Mark Fuller it is the first venture of this size - a venue that seats 1,000 - and one that will make or break his reputation. Tonight's film follows the build-up to the L250,000 opening night.

Mar 2000

This is the estimated number of detectives for hire in Britain, playing an increasingly important role in the evolution of the British legal system. Modem Times talks to some of them about the task of finding errant husbands, tracking down missing children, investigating espionage and fraud, and stepping in to help the police and private prosecutors.

Apr 2000

A look at the sometimes-fiery relationship between three people and their personal trainers. Jonathan is an overweight lawyer desperate to get in shape. Jessica is a 45-year-old mother who believes her husband left her because she "let herself go", and Tracey is a 34-year-old marketing manager who wants to feel fitter and more confident.

Sept 2000

Documenting London life in the 24 hours after this year's first-ever London Mayoral election. Mixing conventional footage with CCTV and minicam, the film paints a portrait of a vibrant city filled with a diverse mix of people. From bustling market life to the loneliness of a pensioner, the film takes a snapshot of millions of lives that brush past each other anonymously each day.