Watch Poisoning Paradise

Poisoning Paradise is a gripping and intensely thought-provoking documentary that explores the devastating environmental and health consequences of pesticide use on the Hawaiian island of Kauai. This powerful film takes an unflinching look at the local communities, particularly the indigenous population, that have been adversely impacted by the excessive use of pesticides by the powerful agrochemical companies based on the island.

Through the lens of powerful first-person testimonials from activists, residents, researchers, and attorneys passionately fighting for the health and well-being of their communities, Poisoning Paradise deftly chronicles the deep-seated social, environmental, and cultural issues that arise when multinational corporations exploit a region's natural resources without any regard for the consequences.

The documentary shows how the people of Kauai have not only suffered from the direct impacts of pesticide exposure but also from the socio-economic disparities and political corruption that have developed as a result of powerful corporate interests. Using unregulated amounts of pesticides, these corporations continue to contaminate the air, water, and soil of the island, with devastating implications for entire ecosystems and human health. Moreover, Poisoning Paradise highlights the particularly severe impact this situation has had on the indigenous population and the severe threat to their cultural survival.

The film also masterfully explores the ways in which a community can come together, challenge power, and create change. We follow the lives of various community members as they fight to pass legislation restricting the use of pesticides, share information about the hazards of pesticide use for both human and environmental health, and hold those responsible for these injustices accountable.

Through interviews with locals, activists, and experts, the filmmakers of Poisoning Paradise reveal how the islands of Hawaii have become a hotbed for the biotech industry, an industry that is largely unregulated by government agencies. The documentary's frank and unforgiving approach shows how the neoliberal economic model of profit over people has been eagerly adopted by these corporations, with no end to the devastating consequences in sight.

The cinematography of Poisoning Paradise is hauntingly beautiful. The people of Kauai come alive through stunning visuals, vibrant colors, and a captivating score. The watching experience is one of lyrical beauty, despite the horrors detailed on-screen. The quality of camerawork throughout the documentary is exceptional, showing both the natural beauty of the island and the destruction caused by agrochemical companies.

Overall, Poisoning Paradise is a compelling and vital documentary that will stay with viewers long after watching it. Through powerful storytelling and striking imagery, it highlights how ordinary citizens who care deeply about their communities and the environment can create positive change in the face of immense corporate power. Whether interested in social justice, environmental issues, or the welfare of marginalized cultures, this documentary is a must-watch for anyone who cares about the future of our planet.

Poisoning Paradise is a 2019 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 18 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 8.3.