Directed by John de Graaf and Vivia Boe • Documentary • 1997 • 56 minutes

AFFLUENZA is a groundbreaking film that diagnoses a serious social disease—caused by consumerism, commercialism and rampant materialism—that is having a devastating impact on our families, communities, and the environment. We have more stuff, but less time, and our quality of life seems to be deteriorating. 

The program ends with a prescription to cure the disease. A growing number of people are opting out of the consumer chase, and choosing 'voluntary simplicity' instead. They are working and shopping less, spending more time with friends and family, volunteering in their communities, and enjoying their lives more.

"An intelligent and original take on very serious issues—No one's done this better."—Deanna Kamiel, Film Professor, New School for Social Research