Green Visions Film Festival to Feature Documentary Starring Mark Ruffalo

The Green Visions Film Festival in Potsdam is set to showcase a compelling documentary featuring Hollywood actor Mark Ruffalo. The film, titled How to Poison a Planet, directed by Katrina McGowan, highlights Ruffalo's collaboration with environmental activist Rob Bilott in their fight against hazardous chemicals known as PFAS.

PFAS, or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are widely used in everyday products due to their water- and stain-resistant properties. These include non-stick cookware, waterproof clothing, baking paper, and pizza boxes. However, these chemicals are notoriously persistent in the environment, accumulating in groundwater and soils, and many are highly toxic.

The documentary is set to have its German premiere during the festival, which will take place from May 22 to May 25. Although Ruffalo is not expected to attend, the event will also feature Icelandic singer Björk, who will provide commentary for another documentary in the lineup.

This year, the festival will showcase a total of 26 national and international productions, including Fungi: Web of Life, which explores the discovery and study of a rare blue mushroom found in the Tasmanian rainforest. The festival emphasizes themes of climate protection and sustainability, with all screenings accompanied by discussions led by experts and scientists.

The festival will kick off with the German premiere of Dust to Dust, a documentary about Japanese fashion designer Yuima Nakazato, who merges creativity with environmental consciousness. Festival director Dieter Kosslick, a former Berlinale chief, emphasized the urgency of addressing climate issues, stating that our current lifestyles contribute significantly to environmental degradation, including glacier melting and ocean pollution.

As the Green Visions Film Festival prepares for its second edition, it aims to raise awareness about pressing environmental challenges through the medium of film, encouraging audiences to reflect on the impact of their choices on the planet.