
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.
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.
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.
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 AND TAKE ACTION
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.
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.
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. Click here to download the Social Media Toolkit.
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 from the How to Live on Earth Education Channel as part of a wider discussion or learning experience.
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 info@villarsinstitute.org