Spillover - Planet der Viren

Michael Wech Germany 2025 89 min.

The moment a virus jumps from animals to humans remains crucial in every epidemic. Ebola, Marburg, Nipah, COVID-19, and bird flu—the list of deadly viruses with such a “spillover” keeps growing. Why is this? And can we learn anything from it? A compelling documentary that searches worldwide for answers about the origins of some of the world's deadliest viruses.

Scientists estimate that thousands of unknown viruses are still circulating with the potential to infect humans. The film uncovers the invisible links between humans, animals and ecosystems, confronting us with the impact of deforestation, intensive livestock farming and globalization.

SPILLOVER, directed by award-winning filmmaker Michael Wech and produced by Emmy Award winner Leopold Hoesch, offers a compelling and highly engaging exploration of viruses and their deadly potential to jump from animals to humans. Through vivid storytelling and a deep dive into history, the film reveals the mechanisms behind emerging outbreaks and their capacity to trigger future pandemics.