Movies About the Planet for Earth Month
BY STEPHANIE LICCIARDI, GROUP FOR THE EAST END ENVIRONMENTAL ASSOCIATE
Wednesday, April 22 marks the 50th anniversary of Earth Day. Nature provides us with respite from the busy, sometimes chaotic world we live in, but it is also the reason society thrives and grows. Sometimes we need to be reminded of that. We take from nature physically and mentally, but forget to give our planet the space to heal and regrow. We want to encourage you to enter next week with environmental mindfulness. We have compiled a list of environmental films for you to explore from the safety of your home. Take a virtual trip to some of our most magnificent national parks, learn more about climate change and its impact on our planet. Grab the kids and watch the classic Dr. Seuss tale, The Lorax.
From Kristina, Director of Membership: “Our Planet” is an 8-episode Netflix series that won an Emmy in 2019. According to The Atlantic, it explains human complicity in harming our planet alongside beautiful nature imagery. It’s a great option if you are feeling motivated about making environmental changes this weekend.
From Anita, Assistant Director of Environmental Education: “National Parks Adventure” is an uplifting, gorgeous film that follows three adventurers through the National Parks. It’s family-friendly and perfect for anyone who wants to watch something light and beautiful.
From Taralynn, Outreach and Education Manager: “Racing Extinction” is a Netflix documentary that draws attention to the role of humans in animal extinction. It’s interesting, and sad at times, but still has an uplifting message. Suitable for older children and adults.
From Aaron, Vice President: “The Woman Who Loves Giraffes” is about biologist Anne Innis Dagg’s life. You’ll learn about the barriers she faced as a woman in science and the dangers that giraffes continue to face today. You can access this movie after paying a small fee to the Westhampton Beach Performing Arts Center. This movie is a good choice if you have the ability to support a local not-for-profit right now.
Most streaming services have Earth Day centric programs. Hulu curated a selection of movies, documentaries, and shows about the planet in celebration of Earth Day. Disney+ hosts all National Geographic shows and movies, so check them out for family friendly choices.
Please keep in mind that while we have tried to include films with a positive message, a lot of movies and documentaries about the planet have a heavy message because the degradation of the environment is difficult to watch. It’s hard to love nature without simultaneously accepting the damage people inflict on it. We hope that by watching one of these movies this weekend, you are reminded of why celebrating and preserving our planet is so important!
If there’s an environmental movie or documentary you love that is not mentioned here, let us know. We might include it in our next movie roundup!