The environment and the ways that we use and abuse it have given film makers plenty of material to work with. Whether it’s documentary style or independent film and even on occasion straight up Hollywood, there are loads of films out there with environmental themes. Here are five that we’ve picked out to get you started.
Global Warming: The Signs and The Science
This is a PBS produced documentary narrated by mutli Grammy award winning singer Alanis Morrissette and that looks at individual lives that have been impacted by climate change over the last few decades. This personalized approach helps make the effects of global warming all the more tangible. The full film is available on Youtube
The March Of The Penguins
This 2005 Oscar winning documentary feature chronicles the yearly journey of Antarctica’s emperor penguins. The cinematography is stunning and this is a great film to watch if you just wanted be reminded of, or take a minute to appreciate, the awesomeness of nature.
The 11th Hour
This documentary was written and produced by Leonardo DiCaprio. The actor is a long time environmentalist and advocate and with this film he examines the many challenges facing the earth and why it is so urgent that they be addressed. He also brings together a wide variety of scientists and other experts to discuss the possible solutions. Check out the trailer below.
Six Degrees Could Change The World
This documentary published by National Geographic takes a look at the impacts of global warming degree by degree over the next 100 years. Following scientists on the front lines and across five continents, this documentary asks the biggest “What If…” of them all.
Erin Brockovich
The film, starring Julia Roberts and directed by Steven Soderbergh, is based on the true story of a law clerk who was instrumental in building a case against the utility company, Pacific Gas and Electricity. The company was responsible for contaminating the water supply of a town called Hinkley, in Southern California. The film received much critical acclaim and Robert won the Golden Globe and Academy Award for her portrayal. The real Erin Brockovich now runs her own consulting firm.
Happy watching!
Loved this, Karen Wimpelberg here, did our new communications intern develop this particular blog? Bravo. I have been keeping list over the years of movies that would be great to show in a semi-public setting with a discussion (which may or may not include an “expert” or “specialist”) to be part of discussion before and after the showing. Erin Brochivitch was always at top of list. Some are about promoting democracy and good government issues, some are environmental and some are directly related to energy and utilities. I think the Alliance would do well to host a quarterly movie and discussion event – using it as a catalyst for getting people to know who we are and what we do and therefore, why our work is and has been so important. I would be glad to work with someone on this idea.