Watch Bringing It Home

Bringing It Home is a 2013 documentary directed by Linda Booker and Blaire Johnson. The film explores the benefits of industrial hemp, a versatile plant with countless uses, and the challenges faced by its legalization in the United States. The film opens with Philip Powell, the producer and narrator of the documentary, explaining the history of hemp and its demise in the United States due to its association with marijuana. Powell provides a brief overview of the differences between hemp and marijuana, emphasizing that industrial hemp contains less than one percent THC, the psychoactive compound found in marijuana, and cannot be used as a recreational drug.

The documentary then delves into the various uses of hemp, ranging from textiles, construction materials, and biofuels, to medicine and food. Experts in the field, such as David Bronner, CEO of Dr. Bronner's, and Mark R. Ha, PhD, a professor of food science and human nutrition at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, weigh in on the potential of industrial hemp in replacing harmful materials, and as a sustainable source of food.

The filmmakers interview farmers, retailers, and activists who advocate for the legalization of industrial hemp, citing its potential not only for economic growth but also for environmental sustainability. The film presents the case study of Kentucky, a state that has reintroduced hemp farming and is already reaping its benefits. Hemp farmers in Kentucky share their experiences of growing the crop and their hopes for the future.

One of the most compelling parts of the film is the personal story of one of the filmmakers, Blaire Johnson, whose brother suffers from epilepsy. Johnson discusses the potential benefits of hemp-derived CBD oil for those struggling with seizures, and the challenges his family faces accessing it due to legal restrictions. This emotionally charged narrative adds a human dimension to the broader story of industrial hemp and the fight to legalize it.

The documentary also explores the challenge of legalizing industrial hemp, as it is still classified as a Schedule I drug under federal law, despite being legalized in several states for industrial and medicinal purposes. The filmmakers travel to Capitol Hill to interview of Congress and lobbyists pushing for changes in legislation. The bureaucratic red tape that surrounds hemp farming is a significant hurdle, and the documentary sheds light on the obstacles faced by farmers and businesses trying to navigate the cumbersome system.

Bringing It Home ties together personal stories, expert opinions, and a compelling narrative, making the case for the benefits of legalizing industrial hemp. The film takes the viewer on a journey that is both informative and inspiring, as it showcases the numerous uses of hemp, and the potential it has for social, economic, and environmental change.

Overall, Bringing It Home is a well-crafted documentary that presents a persuasive argument for the legalization of industrial hemp. With its mix of personal stories and expert opinions, the film succeeds in engaging the viewer and conveying the importance of this versatile crop. The documentary highlights the challenges faced by farmers, consumers, and activists, but also the potential for significant positive change that a shift towards hemp-based products could bring. Bringing It Home is a must-see for anyone interested in environmental sustainability, social justice, and the future of agriculture in America.

Bringing It Home is a 2013 documentary with a runtime of 52 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 8.0.