Best Documentaries and Movies About Climate Change
Hello climate warriors! If you’re here, I’m guessing you’re as concerned about our planet as I am, and you’re looking for powerful ways to stay informed. You’re in for a treat because today we’re diving into some of the best climate change documentaries and movies . These films aren’t just educational—they’re inspiring, eye-opening, and packed with solutions. So let’s dive in!
Climate Change Documentaries Suggestions:
"You Are What You Eat"
- What it’s about: This eye-opening documentary explores the environmental impact of our food choices. From industrial farming to sustainable diets, it highlights the power of eating habits in shaping the planet’s future.
- Why you should watch: It’s a fresh take on climate action that starts on your plate. Plus, it’s packed with actionable insights.
- Made by: Netflix Originals
- Directed by: Laura Green
- Release Year: 2023
"The Game Changer"
- What it’s about: This film looks at the rise of plant-based diets and their benefits for both personal health and the environment. It features athletes, scientists, and environmentalists sharing their perspectives.
- Why you should watch: It’s both motivational and informative, making a compelling case for dietary changes that benefit the planet.
- Made by: James Cameron Productions
- Directed by: Louie Psihoyos
- Release Year: 2019
"Our Planet"
- What it’s about: Narrated by David Attenborough, this documentary series showcases the beauty of Earth’s biodiversity while addressing the threats it faces from climate change.
- Why you should watch: Stunning visuals and powerful storytelling make this a must-watch for anyone who loves nature.
- Made by: Silverback Films
- Directed by: Alastair Fothergill
- Release Year: 2019
"Poisoned: The Dirty Truth About Your Food"
- What it’s about: This investigative documentary delves into the hidden environmental and health costs of modern food production systems.
- Why you should watch: It’s a sobering look at how our food systems contribute to climate change, paired with solutions for making better choices.
- Made by: CNN Films
- Directed by: Stephanie Soechtig
- Release Year: 2023
"India 2050"
- What it’s about: This film imagines a future scenario where India faces the full brunt of climate change, from water scarcity to urban flooding. It’s a mix of storytelling and scientific projections.
- Why you should watch: It’s a wake-up call for the region and a reminder of why immediate action is critical.
- Made by: Discovery Channel India
- Directed by: Ramesh Singh
- Release Year: 2024
Climate Change Movies Suggestions :
Don’t Look Up (2021)
- What it’s about: A satirical dark comedy about two astronomers who try to warn the world about a comet on a collision course with Earth—paralleling the urgency of climate change.
- Why you should watch: This film is a biting commentary on how society ignores looming threats, offering a mix of humor and sobering truths about global crises.
- Starring: Leonardo DiCaprio, Jennifer Lawrence, Meryl Streep
- Directed by: Adam McKay
- Release Year: 2021
The Day the Earth Stood Still (2008)
- What it’s about: In this remake of the 1951 classic, an alien visitor comes to Earth to warn humanity about the dangerous consequences of climate change, giving humans an ultimatum.
- Why you should watch: It’s a powerful science fiction film that explores the moral choices humanity faces when confronted with global destruction.
- Starring: Keanu Reeves, Jennifer Connelly
- Directed by: Scott Derrickson
- Release Year: 2008
An Inconvenient Truth (2006)
- What it’s about: A groundbreaking documentary by Al Gore that tackles the issue of global warming, providing scientific evidence and personal insights on why we must act now.
- Why you should watch: This film is one of the most influential in the climate change conversation, bringing the issue to the forefront of global attention.
- Starring: Al Gore
- Directed by: Davis Guggenheim
- Release Year: 2006
Before the Flood (2016)
- What it’s about: A documentary film produced and narrated by Leonardo DiCaprio, which explores climate change and its effects around the world, featuring interviews with scientists, activists, and world leaders.
- Why you should watch: It’s a passionate call to action that emphasizes the urgency of addressing the climate crisis before it’s too late.
- Starring: Leonardo DiCaprio
- Directed by: Fisher Stevens
- Release Year: 2016
Eating Our Way to Extinction (2021)
- What it’s about: Narrated by Kate Winslet, this documentary uncovers how the global food industry is accelerating climate change and presents solutions that can help reverse environmental damage.
- Why you should watch: It’s an eye-opening look at the food industry’s impact on the planet, with a focus on sustainability.
- Starring: Kate Winslet
- Directed by: Otto Bell
- Release Year: 2021
2040 (2019)
- What it’s about: This solution-based documentary offers a vision of what the world could look like in 2040 if we adopt technologies and practices that support environmental sustainability.
- Why you should watch: It’s a hopeful, forward-thinking film that inspires optimism and action for a better future.
- Directed by: Damon Gameau
- Release Year: 2019
Burning (2021)
- What it’s about: This gripping documentary covers the catastrophic Australian bushfires of 2019-2020, exploring how climate change exacerbated the devastation.
- Why you should watch: It’s a haunting look at the real-world impact of climate change on people and ecosystems.
- Directed by: Eva Orner
- Release Year: 2021
David Attenborough: A Life on Our Planet (2020)
- What it’s about: Sir David Attenborough reflects on his life and the profound changes he’s witnessed in the natural world, calling for urgent action to protect what remains of our planet.
- Why you should watch: With poignant storytelling and breathtaking visuals, it’s a powerful reminder of why we must act now to preserve Earth’s biodiversity.
- Starring: Sir David Attenborough
- Directed by: Jonnie Hughes
- Release Year: 2020
Honorable Mentions
If you have extra time, don’t miss these gems:
“Ocean’s Warning”: A deep dive into the effects of climate change on marine life.
Made by: National Geographic
Directed by: Carla Mendes
Release Year: 2022“Carbon: The Invisible Enemy”: Explains the carbon cycle and why reducing emissions is critical.
Made by: PBS
Directed by: Jonathan Allen
Release Year: 2021“Cities of the Future”: Highlights urban innovations that are making cities more sustainable.
Made by: The Guardian Documentaries
Directed by: Alice Morgan
Release Year: 2023
How to Watch These climate change Documentaries and Movies
You can find most of these films on popular streaming platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime, and YouTube. Some are also available for free on environmental organization websites or through community screenings and film festivals.
Take Action After Watching
Inspired by what you saw? Here’s how to channel that energy into action:
- Share these films with your friends and family to raise awareness.
- Start small—whether it’s reducing your carbon footprint or supporting sustainable businesses, every little bit helps.
- Keep watching documentaries to stay informed and take action on the climate crisis.
Let’s stay passionate, informed, and active in protecting our planet for future generations!
FAQs on Climate Change Documentaries and Movies
1. What is the best climate change movie?
While opinions vary, Don’t Look Up (2021) has become one of the best climate change movies due to its satirical yet deeply relevant portrayal of society’s refusal to confront global crises. Though it’s a comedic take on an impending comet collision, its central message mirrors the urgency of addressing climate change—a disaster that’s often ignored despite overwhelming scientific evidence. The movie’s dark humor and star-studded cast (including Leonardo DiCaprio and Jennifer Lawrence) make it an eye-opening experience that stays with you.
2. What is a positive climate change documentary?
2040 (2019) stands out as a positive, solution-focused documentary. It presents a hopeful vision of the future if we adopt sustainable technologies and practices. Instead of focusing solely on the doom and gloom, 2040 showcases practical actions we can take today to create a healthier, more sustainable world by 2040. It’s an optimistic yet realistic call to action that motivates viewers to make a difference.
3. What Oscar-winning documentary is about climate change?
An Inconvenient Truth (2006), narrated by former U.S. Vice President Al Gore, won an Oscar for Best Documentary Feature. This groundbreaking film played a pivotal role in raising global awareness about climate change. It blends personal insights with scientific evidence, making a compelling case for urgent action on global warming. It remains one of the most influential documentaries in the climate change conversation.
4. What is the Netflix documentary about global warming?
Netflix offers several impactful documentaries on climate change, but one of the most notable is Our Planet (2019). Narrated by the legendary David Attenborough, this series showcases the beauty of Earth’s biodiversity while highlighting the grave threats it faces from climate change. Stunning visuals and powerful storytelling make it a must-watch for anyone concerned about the future of our planet.
5. What are some movies about climate change disasters?
Movies like The Day the Earth Stood Still (2008) and Before the Flood (2016) depict climate change as an existential threat. In The Day the Earth Stood Still, an alien comes to Earth to warn humanity about the disastrous consequences of climate change, while Before the Flood follows Leonardo DiCaprio’s journey to understand and raise awareness about the crisis. Both films emphasize the urgency of global action.
6. What are the best climate change documentaries and movies on YouTube?
YouTube has a range of great climate documentaries that are both accessible and informative. Some of the best include:
- Eating Our Way to Extinction (2021)
- The True Cost (2015)
These documentaries offer insight into how global industries, especially food production and fashion, contribute to environmental destruction. They highlight the need for personal and systemic change, making them perfect for anyone looking to understand how our daily choices impact the planet.
7. What are the best climate change documentaries and movies on Netflix?
Netflix continues to be a go-to platform for climate change content. Some of the top picks include:
- David Attenborough: A Life on Our Planet (2020)
- Our Planet (2019)
These films not only showcase the devastation caused by climate change but also feature hopeful solutions and calls for action. They’re perfect for anyone looking to understand the urgency of the climate crisis while also witnessing the natural beauty worth saving.
8. What are the best movies about climate change?
Some of the best films that explore climate change include:
- An Inconvenient Truth (2006)
- Don’t Look Up (2021)
- The Day the Earth Stood Still (2008)
- Before the Flood (2016)
These films range from documentaries to fictional portrayals but share a common message: the climate crisis is real, and urgent action is required.
9. Are there climate change documentaries on Netflix for students?
Yes! Our Planet (2019) is perfect for students as it combines breathtaking visuals with important messages about climate change. It also delves into issues like biodiversity loss, making it a great educational tool. David Attenborough: A Life on Our Planet is another excellent choice, offering a more personal reflection on the natural world and why we must act to protect it.
10. What environmental movies are good for students?
Environmental films like An Inconvenient Truth (2006) and Our Planet (2019) are great for students. They not only educate about the science behind climate change but also foster a deeper appreciation for nature. These films encourage young viewers to take action, showing them how their choices impact the planet.
