The upcoming feature documentary, Plastic People: The Hidden Crisis of Microplastics, sheds light on the detrimental consequences of the world’s addiction to plastic. Produced by Canada’s White Pine Pictures, this 90-minute film delves into the growing threat of microplastics to human health. It has been selected as an official entry in the SXSW Festival 2024 Documentary Spotlight.
Worldwide Distribution by Rainmaker Content
Rainmaker Content, a UK-based international distributor, has secured the worldwide sales rights for Plastic People. This collaboration comes as no surprise, as key executives at Rainmaker have a longstanding working relationship with White Pine Pictures, dating back almost two decades. Greg Phillips and Vicky Ryan, the brains behind Rainmaker, have previously represented White Pine titles such as the hard-hitting TV drama series The Border, the feature documentary Toxic Beauty, and Margaret Atwood: A Word After a Word After a Word is Power.
Unveiling the Hidden Dangers
The synopsis of Plastic People emphasizes the alarming fact that only 10% of plastic is recycled, while the remaining 90% degrades into harmful microplastics. Through groundbreaking on-camera tests, the film will showcase the toxic levels of these microplastics in the human body. Shockingly, these minute particles are being discovered in our organs, bloodstream, and even the placentas of new mothers.
Science journalist Ziya Tong co-directs Plastic People alongside Ben Addelman, bringing a unique perspective to the project. Tong’s personal approach includes engaging with leading scientists worldwide, as well as subjecting herself to experiments involving her home, food, and body. The documentary is produced by Vanessa Dylyn and Stephen Paniccia, with Peter Raymont and Rick Smith serving as executive producers from White Pine Pictures.
Support and Funding
Plastic People has received financial backing from various sources, including Telus Communication’s Telus Independent pilot documentary film initiative, the Canada Media Fund, the CMF POV Fund, and Telefilm Canada. Generous contributions from philanthropic entities such as the Dragonfly Fund and the Chisholm Thomson Family Foundation have also played a crucial role in bringing this project to life.
According to Rainmaker Content’s Co-CEO, Greg Phillips, plastic pollution poses a significant threat not only to the environment but also to human health. Plastic People aims to provide a comprehensive exploration of the plastic crisis, highlighting the urgent need for solutions. By engaging audiences in a compelling narrative, the film seeks to inspire positive change and drive collective action towards a sustainable future.
As Plastic People gears up for its world premiere at SXSW on March 9, the film promises to spark meaningful conversations about the global impact of microplastics. With the festival running from March 8-16 in Austin, Texas, audiences can anticipate an eye-opening experience that challenges perceptions and encourages reflection on our consumption habits.
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