3 Billion and Counting

3 Billion and Counting is a 2010 American feature-length documentary film that takes a hard look at the devastating impact that a seemingly simple blood-borne parasite, the mosquito-caused malaria, has on much of the world, specifically the developing countries. Directed by Dr. D. Rutledge Taylor, the movie uncovers the chilling fact that every year malaria claims the lives of millions of people, including a child every thirty seconds.

Greatly inspired by the statistics that claim that nearly half the world's population is at risk of malaria, Dr. Rutledge Taylor, a Los Angeles-based preventative medicine physician sets out on a journey across the world, especially through Africa and Asia, to delve deep into the causes of this severe problem and find out why present-day efforts in managing the disease appear largely ineffective.

Taylor takes us on his globetrotting journey through a series of interviews, narratives, and eye-opening revelations about the malaria problem and its current solutions or lack thereof. He keenly investigates the global health policies, explores the role of the World Health Organization, and critically examines the controversial political decisions surrounding DDT, a pesticide extensively used for mosquito control post-World War 2, which was later banned due to environmental concerns.

The film not just delves into the history of malaria but also demystifies many misconceptions surrounding it. Through the journey, Taylor interviews several experts, activists, scientists, and affected individuals. As a result, the audience gets to witness a shocking world where nearly three billion people are left to suffer from this potentially deadly disease.

Taylor also brings into limelight the issues surrounding the globally criticized ban of DDT. He suggests that the international restrictions on DDT usage, enforced under the disguise of environmental concern, might be contributing to the lack of progress in eradicating malaria. This sets up an intriguing premise for debate that is poised perfectly in the movie. The film suggests that the various cheap alternatives developed to eradicate malaria in the post-DDT ban era often aren't as effective and cannot reach the remote, needy populations.

Co-produced by Helene Udy, the film employs the voyaging style of documentary filmmaking. It starts with Taylor setting off on his journey and documenting his experiences in chronological sequences as he goes along. But the film goes beyond merely documenting Taylor's travels; it rigorously investigates a global issue, raises critical questions, provides striking insights, and enforces a call to action.

3 Billion and Counting does not just present facts. It frames a global health crisis from a unique perspective, laudably achieving a balance between Taylor's exploratory narration and the contextual contribution from a range of experts. The film is set against a highly emotive background, but it refrains from preaching or propaganda.

Moreover, the film presents a visually rich filmmaking spirit. The diverse African and Asian landscapes, rural settlements, urban centers, detailed maps and archival footages, all come together brilliantly, making the depictions vibrant and engaging. The cinematography and the overall production value add to the immersive experience.

Valuable interviews outside of research centers and within the communities collecting firsthand accounts bring the real-life horror of malaria in living color to the screen. These interactions remarkably shed light on the intensity of the crisis malaria poses, particularly in economically struggling regions.

Moreover, the film provides a strong and impactful medium that powerfully drives home the scale and the pressing nature of the problem, acting as an eye-opener for viewers who might be unaware of the extent of the crisis. It is a poignant exploration of the human cost of political and environmental decision-making and a stirring critique of international health policy.

In conclusion, 3 Billion and Counting is a thought-provoking documentary that brings out, with passionate clarity, the stark reality of a preventable and treatable disease that continues to claim countless lives across the globe. It invites us all to question, react, and bring about change to this enormous and still growing health crises, while serving as a strong, provocative commentary on global health policy.