The Substance: Albert Hofmann's LSD

Is there any singular substance that has influenced Western culture more than LSD? Sadly, the story of LSD has thus far been a tragic one, but with new research at some of the leading medical universities in the USA, perhaps this phenomenal gift will make a resurgence and become readily available once again - it is too beneficial for just the most ill. This film covers the entire history of LSD, including original footage of government and psychological experiments with the substance. If you are interested in learning more about LSD, this film would be a good place to start.

I have to say that I was quite impressed with this documentary about the accidental discovery of LSD (aka. Acid) by Swiss chemist, Albert Hofmann in 1943.

"The Substance" was certainly a documentary whose producers went well out of their way to create something of a surreal and psychedelic experience for the viewer by using hypnotic imagery and spacey music to entertain while the whole story unfolded.

At the time of his discovery of LSD, Hofmann was trying to understand how consciousness was created and, in doing so, his breakthrough in science opened up a literal "Pandora's Box" when it came to the realm of a virtual mind-altering experience.

Also featured in this documentary was an interview with Albert Hofmann at the age of 100. Still a very lucid thinker, Hofmann clearly described his own experiences taking LSD, which he believed, as a psychiatric tool, offered great benefits to the patient.

*Note* - In 2008, Albert Hofmann died at the ripe old age of 102.

By chance I came across this movie on TV today and must say that it truly is an eye opening experience.

Not only does the substance increases your awareness as such but this movie makes you aware how absurd in retrospect step by step a whole generation was impacted by a coincidence.

The movie is extremely well crafted. A first rate documentary which is as mentioned eye opening.

Fantastic editing, music and speed.... A historical movie about a special time...

It accurately describes how from the lab it arrived at the streets in quantities which today seem hard to believe. For someone who is now about 40 and was too young to have lived the 50ies and 60ies it enables to understand the psychedelic and Hippie movement. By the editing and the intense interviews you do have a feeling of actually reliving the times. The Director has truly shown sensitivity and also a certain pragmatism which makes this movie very pleasurable and entertaining.