Fantastic Fungi is a documentary that explores the hidden world of mushrooms and their role in the natural world. It examines the relationship between fungi, plants, insects, and humans, and the remarkable ways in which fungi can transform our world.
Combining science, art, and storytelling, Fantastic Fungi takes viewers on a journey to discover the power of fungi and how they can be used to improve our environment, health, and lifestyles. The film features interviews with leading experts in mycology and ecology, as well as stunning footage of mushrooms and fungi in their natural habitats.
The documentary delves into the mysterious world of mushrooms, exploring their biological properties and their potential for environmental restoration. Viewers learn about fungi’s ability to break down toxins, generate new soil, exchange nutrients between organisms, and create a resilient web of life.
Fantastic Fungi shares stories of people worldwide who are using mushrooms to improve their lives and environments, from permaculturalists to entrepreneurs. Through this documentary, audiences gain a unique understanding of mushrooms’ remarkable potential for healing our planet—and perhaps even ourselves.
Type: Documentary
Director(s): Louie Schwartzberg
Runtime: 1h21m
People
Paul StametsPaul Stamets is a mycologist (the study of fungi) who is known for his advocacy for the usefulness of mushrooms, amongst those also with psilocybin. He also owns a company and can be found speaking about fungi at places like TED.
Michael Pollan
Michael Pollan is a prolific writer that has shaped our opinions on food (production, consumption, ethics) for decades. He is a professor at UC Berkeley Graduate School of Journalism and Harvard. His book How to Change Your Mind has given the psychedelics renaissance a welcome boost.