Open Planet Studios’ new feature documentary, How to Live on Earth, presented by two-time Academy Award nominee Benedict Cumberbatch, will premiere globally on YouTube on Sunday 20 September 2026 at 7pm BST.
Billed as the ultimate "how-to video," the film combines cinematography with human stories to explore how humanity can build a thriving future by working alongside nature. Featured contributors include climate justice activist Xiye Bastida, wildlife filmmaker and biologist Dan O'Neill, and former White House chef Sam Kass.
Following its world premiere and UK theatrical run, the global YouTube launch aims to make the film accessible worldwide. The broadcast will also mark the debut of an original end-credits track written, produced, and performed by Grammy Award-winning artist Imogen Heap. Titled "Chapter 4," the song was inspired by the film's message following a conversation with featured expert Dan O'Neill.
Prior to the digital release, the documentary is travelling internationally through regional screenings across Switzerland, Australia, Ecuador, the Netherlands, Singapore, and the United States. On the day of its global premiere, How to Live on Earth will also screen at the Climate Film Festival in New York to mark the beginning of New York Climate Week.
Executive Producer Jonnie Hughes explained that the production was created to serve as a catalyst for conversations regarding humanity's relationship with the natural world, noting a growing global appetite for stories that offer practical agency and optimism.
The release is backed by an international impact campaign alongside a network of NGOs, UN agencies, and educational institutions designed to bring the film into classrooms and policy forums.
Produced by Open Planet Studios in association with the Villars Institute Foundation and Silvania, How to Live on Earth was directed by Fredi Devas. The film features a main musical theme composed by Hans Zimmer and Jacob Shea for Bleeding Fingers Music, alongside an original score by Jacob Shea and Ho-Ling Tang.
