The Greater Good (DVD)

The Great Good is an award winning film by Leslie Manookian, Kendall Nelson and Chris Pilaro that goes beyond the fear, hype and politics that have polarized the vaccine debate. The film re-frames this emotionally charged issue and offers, for the first time, the opportunity for a rational and scientific discussion on how to create a safer and more effective vaccine program. Our society has reached a crossroads on vaccines. Americans are asking questions about safety but are confused about where to turn for answers. Government agencies are charged with implementing sound policies that will keep vaccination rates high and disease rates low. But to accomplish this noble goal, does the government go too far in shielding the public from possible side effects? American children are now the most vaccinated population on the planet. One would think they would also be the healthiest, but consider these alarming statistics: according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1 in 6 children has a learning disability or behavioral problem, 1 in 9 children is asthmatic, 1 in 110 children suffers from autism, and 1 in 450 is diabetic. Vaccinate? The Greater Good explores this pressing question and sheds light on an issue that is already on the minds of expecting mothers and fathers, grandparents, doctors and healthcare professionals across the country. This film is a character-driven documentary that explores the areas where parenting, modern medicine and states rights clash with politics, group-think and Big Pharma. The film offers parents, doctors and policy-makers a safe space to actively listen to and learn from one another. Mixing verite footage, intimate interviews, 1950s-era government-produced movies and up-to-date TV news reporting, The Greater Good weaves together the stories of families whose lives have been forever changed by vaccination.

• documentary