By Andrés Muñoz
I’ve always thought that the phrase “climate change” isn’t ominous enough. Regardless of what the critics and the naysayers might indicate, climate change (disruption/morphing/devastation, anyone? Spitballing here) is not a distant threat. It’s a present-day reality that reshapes both our planet and society at a hyper-accelerated pace.
We’ve all seen the increased floods, raging fires, and devastating hurricanes, all caused by climate change. From these disasters to more socially-centric issues like mass displacement and economic instability, the planet is reacting to our lack of care for the environment. This causes many problems for humans and millions (if not billions) of species worldwide.
What should we do to tackle this situation? Apart from reducing, reusing, and recycling, the truth is that everyone has their own unique way of helping out. Activists engage in protests globally, policymakers strive to take on the big corporations that pollute more than individuals, and here I am, writing this article.
As someone with a background in audiovisual media, my initial thought is to raise awareness and tell stories that seep into people’s minds. What type of stories, though?
Documentaries on climate change are a big part of this and should take centre stage as powerful tools. They can highlight the main issues behind climate change and, most importantly, inspire action. They focus on connecting with audiences massively and on an emotional level. Here are six documentaries that address climate change. Most are available globally through Disney+, Netflix, or Amazon streaming services.
“An Inconvenient Truth”: How Al Gore Laid It Out For All Of Us
Our journey begins with a classic: “An Inconvenient Truth.” Released in 2006, this film transformed Al Gore from a former politician into a hardcore climate change advocate. Gore’s passionate presentation of scientific data and compelling visuals brought the issue to the forefront of public consciousness.
By confirming the realities of climate change, he sparked a global conversation. It was groundbreaking in ’06 and is now considered one of the pioneers of climate change mass awareness campaigns.
“Chasing Ice”: A Visual Adventure
Next, we go with famous nature photographer James Balog’s “Chasing Ice” (2012). This film documents a stunning exploration of the decline of glaciers in Iceland.
Even though the expedition had many technical and health problems, the film captures the fascinating and unnerving displacement of these massive ice formations. As the glaciers crumble and disappear, the film serves as a reminder of climate change’s irreversible consequences.
“Before The Flood”: Leo Raising Awareness
Fisher Stevens’ “Before the Flood” takes us on a global journey with Leonardo DiCaprio, who investigates the impacts of climate change on various ecosystems and communities. From the Arctic to the Amazon, the film shows how interconnected our planet is and the need for collective action.
I remember watching it a few years ago. What I love the most about this documentary is the analogy they make with Hieronymous Bosch’s “Garden of Earthly Delights”, a famous triptych that shows three stages: Eden, Humankind Before the Flood, and Hell. They mention it at the start and end of the film, so if you want to know more, go watch it!
“Tomorrow”: Setting Ominousness Aside
What usually happens with these docs is that we see a haunting and scary picture of how we will end up if things go as they are going. “Tomorrow” (2015) shifts the focus to solutions and offers a hopeful vision of a sustainable future.
This documentary shows innovative projects and initiatives worldwide, demonstrating that positive change is actually still possible! From renewable energy to sustainable agriculture and education, “Tomorrow” is a clear example of how everyone can become part of the solution.
Sir David Taking It Home
Finally, I’m finishing with the granddaddy of nature narrators: “David Attenborough: A Life on Our Planet“. This 2020 film is a reflection on the natural world and human impact on it. Sir David Attenborough’s decades of experience as a naturalist and broadcaster show a powerful narrative about the climate crisis and the need for urgent action.
These five documentaries give an overview of the crisis and some potential ways forward. They show us how documentary filmmaking can mobilise audiences to address one of the (if not THE) greatest challenges of our time.
On a personal note, I feel documentaries on climate change are a fantastic way of getting a story out quickly and efficiently. Yes, “Tomorrow” is hopeful, but climate change isn’t a situation that can be fixed immediately and just by a few individuals.
All these documentaries make me hope that someday, someone who has real decision-making power takes a look at them and spurs governments and corporations to act more responsibly. One can dream. Everyone should be doing their part in slowing and trying to halt climate change; make sure to do yours!