6 Films That Will Make You Want to Hug the Earth or Run Away to Live in the Woods
Sustainability and environmental documentaries capture the realities of the planet we live on and the state of our climate, but sometimes it’s the make-believe, the magic, and the fantastical that inspire the most innovative solutions and transformative change. They can tap into our emotions and imaginations, making environmental issues more relatable and encouraging audiences of all ages and walks of life to become advocates for a healthier planet. Below are six films that will either make you want to give the Earth a big ol’ hug or run away to live in the woods (or both). Whichever you choose, make sure to invite us to the watch party!
1. The Lorax (2012)
Have you rewatched The Lorax as an adult? It’s aIt’s a core-memory film fromfrom many of our childhoods that should be revisited by sustainable baddies looking to connect with their inner child and the seeds of their love for the planet. A 12-year-old Ted searches for the one thing that will win him the affection of the girl of his dreams, the long-extinct Truffula tree. The film depicts the devastating impact of greed and corporate exploitation on the natural world and highlights the need to protect our planet and its resources, reminding us of the interconnectedness of all living things.
2. Captain Fantastic (2016)
This one is for the girlies who genuinely enjoy the act of sobbing. Captain Fantastic takes place in the forests of the Pacific Northwest and tells the story of a father devoted to raising his six kids with a rigorous physical and intellectual education but is then forced to enter mainstream society. By contrasting the values and lifestyle of the family with those of capitalist society, the movie challenges viewers to consider the ways in which our actions affect the planet and our own well-being.
3. Wall-E (2008)
Another childhood fave, WALL-E is a poignant and timely reminder of the dangers of environmental degradation and the importance of preserving our planet. The film depicts a dystopian future in which humanity has abandoned Earth, leaving behind mountains of trash and pollution. Through the eyes of the only silly ‘n’ cute AI robot to exist, WALL-E, viewers witness the devastating consequences of environmental neglect and the potential consequences of unchecked consumerism.
4. Princess Mononoke (1987)
Studio Ghibli films will always make you want to hug the Earth, but Princess Mononoke tells a powerful story of the conflict between human civilization and nature. The film explores the consequences of human greed and how it leads to the destruction of the environment and the displacement of animals. Through its vivid depiction of the forests, rivers, and mountains, Princess Mononoke highlights the importance of preserving nature and respecting the delicate balance of ecosystems.
5. La Belle Verte (1996)
The French film La Belle Verte is a thought-provoking comedy that pokes fun at our modern (by 1996 standards) way of life and its impact on the environment. The film follows Mila, a visitor from an advanced alien civilization, as she experiences the stark contrast between her world and the chaos and pollution of Earth. Through her observations and interactions with the people of Earth, the film sheds light on issues like consumerism, waste, and pollution and is the perfect choice for your indie-film night with friends.
6. El Abrazo de la Serpiente (2015)
El Abrazo de la Serpiente is a visually stunning masterpiece that explores the relationship between humans and the natural environment. The film tells the story of two explorers, one in the early 20th century and the other in the 1940s, who both seek the guidance of a shaman in the Colombian Amazon. Through their journeys, the explorers witness the beauty and complexity of the Amazon rainforest and the Indigenous cultures that depend on it. The film raises important questions about the exploitation of natural resources, the consequences of deforestation, and the importance of preserving Indigenous knowledge and traditions.