ABOUT THE FILM
1. What is How to Live on Earth?
How to Live on Earth is a hopeful feature documentary exploring how humans can work with nature, not against it — and what becomes possible when nature thrives, and so do we. Presented by Benedict Cumberbatch, the film is produced by Open Planet Studios in association with the Villars Institute and Silvania.
2. Why did the Villars Institute make this film?
We believe film has the power to reach people across generations, geographies and sectors — helping build a new narrative for nature, inspire learning, facilitate dialogue and shift from eco-anxiety towards eco-ambition and agency. How to Live on Earth is part of our wider mission to advance systems transformation for people and planet.
3. Who is the film for?
Everyone. The film is designed to engage people across generations — from students and educators to communities, organizations and leaders — and can be used in classrooms, communities and boardrooms around the world.
4. Where can I watch the film?
How to Live on Earth will be available globally and free to watch on YouTube from 20 September 2026. [WATCH THE FILM] ENGAGE & TAKE ACTION
5. How can I get involved and take action?
The film is just the beginning. Explore the “How To” questions, host a screening or dialogue, bring the film into your school or community, build your systems leadership, create and share your own ideas, and help others engage with the film.
EXPLORE & TAKE ACTION
6. How can I use the film as a learning and education resource?
Use the film to introduce a topic, explore connections across disciplines, start a discussion or build a wider learning journey around its questions and themes. Educators can use the full film, shorter content and supporting resources with students of different ages and across different subjects.
7. What learning, discussion and action resources are available to help me?
We have created three main resources: How to Live on Earth Website — explore the “How To” questions, access learning resources and discover ways to get involved. How to Live on Earth Education Channel — go deeper through short films, expert perspectives and learning resources, and contribute to the conversation. Villars Review — discover new ideas and perspectives and develop and publish your own. Schools and educators can also access our Educator Guide, curriculum resources and Q&A.
8. How can I share the film and amplify the conversation on social media?
Share the film through your own social channels and networks, and invite others to watch, discuss and take the learning further. Our Social Media Kit includes ready-to-use copy, visuals and key messages to help you get started. [DOWNLOAD THE SOCIAL MEDIA KIT]
HOST A SCREENING
9. How can I host a screening?
You can organize a screening in your school, university, organization or community. [HOST A SCREENING] to access the film and practical guidance to help you plan your event.
10. What kind of screening could I organize?
Whatever works best for your audience. You could host a classroom screening, school or university event, community gathering, team session or leadership dialogue. You can screen the full film or use selected shorter content as part of a wider discussion or learning experience.
11. Is there a minimum or maximum number of people for a screening?
No. A screening can be as small as a classroom or team discussion, or a larger event for your school, organization or community.
12. Is it free, and what are the technical requirements? The film is free to watch on YouTube. For screenings, you will need a reliable internet connection or approved access to the film, a screen or projector, and suitable sound for your audience. For questions or support in organizing a screening, please contact us at [email].
