Films to Write About on Environmental Awareness
“Before the Flood”, 2016
Director: Fisher Stevens
Produced by and featuring Leonardo DiCaprio, this documentary explores the devastating impacts of climate change on the planet and examines solutions that could avert the worst effects of a global environmental crisis. The film includes interviews with scientists, activists, and world leaders.
Starring: Leonardo DiCaprio, Ban Gi-moon, Alejandro G. Iñárritu, Mike Brune, Marc Mageau, Enric Sala, Jake Awa, Jason Box, Philip Levine, Michael E. Mann;
Production year: 2016;
Genre: documentary, news;
MPAA rating: pg;
Duration: 96 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 8,2;
“The Day After Tomorrow”, 2004
Director: Roland Emmerich
A high-octane disaster film that imagines the catastrophic effects of rapid climate change, leading to a new ice age. While criticized for its scientific inaccuracies, the film succeeded in sparking conversation about global warming and the potential for sudden climate events.
Starring: Dennis Quaid, Jake Gyllenhaal, Emmy Rossum, Dash Mihok, Jay O. Sanders, Sela Ward, Ian Holm, Kenneth Welsh, Glenn Plummer, Adrian Lester;
Production year: 2004;
Genre: science fiction, thriller, drama, adventure;
MPAA rating: pg13;
Duration: 124 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 6,5;
More information about the film “The Day After Tomorrow” on the website imdb.com
“Chasing Ice”, 2012
Director: Jeff Orlowski-Yang
This visually stunning documentary uses time-lapse cameras to capture the melting of glaciers, providing undeniable evidence of climate change. The film follows photographer James Balog's efforts to document the erosion of these icy landscapes over several years.
Starring: James Balog, Svavar Jónatansson, Louie Psihoyos, Kitty Boone, Sylvia Earle Ph.D., Dennis Dimick, Adam LeWinter, Jason Box, Tad Pfeffer, Suzanne Balog;
Production year: 2012;
Genre: documentary, biography;
MPAA rating: pg13;
Duration: 75 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7,7;
More information about the film “Chasing Ice” on the website imdb.com
“Okja”, 2017
Director: Bong Joon-ho
A unique entry in the genre, this film from director Bong Joon-ho centers on a young girl's fight to protect her genetically modified super-pig, Okja, from corporate exploitation. The film delves into themes of animal rights, consumerism, and the ethical implications of genetically modified organisms.
Starring: An Seo-hyeon, Tilda Swinton, Jake Gyllenhaal, Paul Dano, Giancarlo Esposito, Yoon Je-moon, Steven Yeun, Lily Collins, Daniel Henshall, Devon Bostick;
Production year: 2017;
Genre: science fiction, action, drama, adventure;
Age: 16+;
Duration: 120 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7,3;
More information about the film “Okja” on the website imdb.com
These films, among others, not only entertain but also challenge viewers to reflect on their environmental impacts and consider the legacy they wish to leave for future generations.
In examining the vast ocean of cinematic endeavors, from groundbreaking spectacles to indie gems, it becomes evident that every film, irrespective of its scale or scope, carries within it the unique fingerprint of its creators. Films, in their essence, transcend mere entertainment; they act as mirrors reflecting societal norms, historical epochs, personal struggles, and the boundless imagination of the human spirit. As we write about and analyze these visual poems, we're not just chronicling the evolution of an art form; we're capturing the very essence of human creativity and emotion. Through the lens of cinema, we explore complex narratives that challenge, inspire, and transform us, amplifying voices that need to be heard and stories that must be told. In this journey of cinematic exploration, we are reminded that every film has the potential to leave an indelible mark on the tapestry of our culture, pushing us to question, to feel, and, ultimately, to connect with one another on a profound level.
