Actor Benedict Cumberbatch hosts new free YouTube film about nature

Documentary Release

Actor Benedict Cumberbatch hosts the new Open Planet documentary titled How to Live on Earth, which premiered on YouTube on September 20. Filming took place at locations including the Natural History Museum in London, the Calakmul Biosphere Reserve in Mexico, Times Square in New York City, and the Bahamas.

The Three Pillars

Cumberbatch felt nervous about taking on the project because Sir David Attenborough is the primary presenter of natural history films. However, he joined because the script featured humour and a three-pillared approach centered on providing sustenance for the future, appreciating the natural world, and understanding human existence. Executive producer Jonnie Hughes noted that Cumberbatch was chosen for his global reach and storytelling ability.

Expert Contributors

The film features contributions from wildlife filmmaker Dan O'Neill, climate justice activist Xiye Bastida, and former White House chef and nutrition policy advisor Sam Kass. Cumberbatch relied on these experts to anchor his presentation with authority since he is not a policy expert or scientist himself.

Natural Connections

Working on the project boosted the actor's understanding of environmental issues, citing moving moments like watching prisoners interact with turtles and seeing tribespeople weep over the return of salmon after the removal of dams on the Klamath River in Oregon and California. He stated that humanity must remember it belongs to nature rather than standing apart from it, driven by centuries of capitalism and rapid city growth.

Free Access

Funded by the Villars Institute Foundation and Silvania, the documentary is available to watch for free on YouTube to ensure democratic access for educators and policy forums without a paywall.