by Roberto
Figure. The Invisible Extinction. Source.
When it comes to microbes, the public still perceives them largely as the cause of infections. This worldview goes back to the latter half of the nineteenth century with the seminal findings of Pasteur and Koch. During the past few decades this predominant view changed towards a recognition of microbes' largely beneficial roles, but the pandemic appears to have slowed down this learning process. Which is why the infectious enthusiasm of scientists communicating the fact that microbes are so much more than infectious agents is so critically important, now more than ever. The documentary film "The Invisible Extinction" does just that by giving us a very personal view of leading scientists working to preserve microbial diversity. This eye-opener of a film should be required viewing for everyone in the least bit concerned about human (and planetary) health. And who isn't?
Using an effective combination of scientific narrative, animations and real-life stories, the film drives home three major themes. First, our relationship with microbes is largely a beneficial one. Second, in many habitats – the human gut prime amongst them – microbial diversity is declining due to modernization and the overuse of antibiotics. Third, there is a great need to save microbiomes with great diversity to forestall massive microbial extinctions.
In my view, the key to this film's success lies in the scientists that play the center roles, Maria Gloria Dominguez-Bello and Martin Blaser. Aside from their coming across as determined in accomplishing their work, we see them as the caring and engaging humans that they are. Maria Gloria is as warm interacting with Amerindians during sampling trips to her native Venezuela or singing at home with her daughter as she is explaining the importance of the vertical transmission of microbiota during vaginal births. Similarly, Marty is as compelling and emotional when he discusses with his daughter her celiac disease as when he discusses results of lab experiments suggesting a link between antibiotics and obesity. Seeing them both enjoying life together – as when they ride bikes together or crash in a hotel room in China after a hectic day – further conveys the message that theirs is the fulfilled life of a couple doing extraordinary work because of the deep conviction that what they are doing is essential for our future.
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