A Billion Lives

This documentary is for everyone! It sheds so much light on government, public health, and one of the most revolutionary medical tools we have ever seen. The title is very fitting and almost astonishing when you realize we are really talking about that many actual human beings real lives! Its refreshing to know that this was shot through the direction of Aaron Biebert, whom is not an electronic cigarette nor a combustible cigarette user, so it has that very raw unbiased, just get down to the truth feel about it. To travel world, and mix this amount of astonishing big factors is very impressive; from Big Tobacco, Big Pharmaceutical companies, FDA, doctors, business owners, electronic cigarette industry, consumers, and just people in the know. I could only hope that all documentaries were shot with such realism and the desire to just get the truth out to people. It's a must see!

This was a great look into something that's been highly misunderstood, and overlooked by the General public. I was a person with an anti- vape mentality and after seeing this and doing my own research I'm convinced this will be a huge worldwide health revolution ( yes I'm using the over used 'r' word, but with good reason, it's THAT big). This doc was far reaching and well rounded in addressing the issue and did what all great doc do- stir up emotions for those watching. These ranged from anger, frustration and a touch of hopelessness ( politics are so complex and, well, screwed up haha), to inspiration, motivation and empowerment ( I kept wanting to leave right then to tell everyone about it). Whether you're a skeptic or an advocate, a left brained or right, this film will get you.

We think the academics, doctors and government officials are advising and deciding what's going to be best for all - but it's not so. This film peels back the layers to reveal what is basically a fraud being perpetrated on us all. Who can we trust? Why would medical doctors and public health charities seem to go against their oath or mission to save lives?

Aaron, the Director and narrator, is warm and honest. He takes us on a journey - learning, enjoying beautifully shot scenery around the world. But the beauty is juxtaposed against a jarring tale of selfishness, ideologically blinded medicine-men of the modern world. We are transported to the past then back into the present day - delivering an insight that students of public health might never glimpse in their formal training. So much so that I would recommend all my students of public health see this film. But, it's not only for public health students and practitioners. Lawyers should see it. Political advocates should see it. Vapers, smokers and their friends and families should see it.

If you are worried about the future, the way the world is going and you wonder what to do about it - this documentary is an accessible case story. Will revolution come or will we bow down cowed by the bullies, their lies and threats, their tricks and illusions? Wake up! There's more than the billion lives of smokers at risk.

A Billion Lives has left me waiting to see what Aaron and his generous genuinely loving team will do next - they've set themselves a high bar with this first debut film. Good on you guys and thank you so much for bringing your World Premiere to New Zealand. You have helped raise awareness of the neglect of indigenous people who are dying in disproportionately high numbers from smoking tobacco.

Rarely do you find the authenticity and truth that you find in this film. Uninfluenced by finance, this documentary was made and paid for as it has been released. A filmmaker who had a mission to tell the truth with power backed by studies and work, not large corporate interest. A Billion Lives has the power to shape legislation, change peoples minds and save 100's of millions, if not, a billion lives. I am excited for its continued release across the globe and will be waiting with baited breath as it changes minds and educates the people. Beautiful imagery. Diligent research. Emotional storytelling. Influential education. Policy-shaping persuasion. A true David vs. Goliath piece, its gives the movement a voice, it gives the industry a large voice and it helps build a united front over seas and borders.

This is a movie for everybody about a major subject : will we let one billion people die without letting them know there is something safer than smoking that could help them, without stopping public health and government from lying about it.

Smokers should know, but their family and friends too, and this film is for all of them, a journey all over the world to discover the truth, to understand how authorities went from discovering tobacco harm to fighting a cure reducing this harm with the same weapons big tobacco companies used decades ago.

It could be a fantastic road movie with a plot, as the picture is perfect and the time flies by with the passion of the people and the energy and serenity of Aaron Biebert. But they are not actors and it's a frightening story that is really happening.