FemmeFilmFest7 Review: Planet Prescription (Dayna Reggero)

Planet Prescription, a moving documentary by director Dayna Reggero, tackles topics not often discussed with grace and urgency. The film uses the COVID-19 pandemic to talk about how fragile we as humans truly are, and how susceptible we are to air borne viruses as well as how much the air we breathe everyday affects us. It has a powerful message about humans, about the environment and unapologetically challenges people to take action and steps towards changing air pollution forever, as well as bring awareness to the topics those may not have previously considered.

There are interviews from health and environmental professionals to social workers included throughout the film in which they speak on their opinions as well as facts about the topics at hand. On top of this powerful element there is a voiceover that often goes in depth, holding our hand throughout the narrative of the film, giving powerful reasons as to why we should truly give more thought and care to what we’re being presented with.

The film highlights the importance of sharing stories and connecting as humans in order to come together and tackle a common issue. That we have to recognize warning signs in our lives as well as the lives of others and take action instead of standing by and doing nothing. It brings up issues that many individuals may not even be previously aware of, such as the fact that urban, poor children of color that have experienced racial injustice are also enduing record heat and air pollution. This, in turn, results in a unique and horrific burden of asthma attacks.

From the diesel exhaust of school buses to the air pollution created by air travel as well as the rate of asthma-having children being much more susceptible to COVID-19, often dying at a much higher rate, Planet Prescription pulls no punches. It’s an eye opening film that should make its viewers upset and uncomfortable yet inspired in a way — determined to help make a change. It’s an important documentary that comes in a perfect time, here to highlight the things that matter and have its voice be heard.