What is hollywood saying?
The discussion of climate issues in documentary filmmaking has been present fiercely within the past decade. The appeal of the narration from stars like Leonardo DiCaprio in "Before the Flood" has allowed Hollywood stars to enter into the scope of speaking out about climate science. Additionally, pop stars within the music industry like Billie Eilish and the 1975 have subtly and overtly spoken out about climate inaction in some of their very popular songs. Many have argued about whether celebrities should speak out about these issues in relation to politics, but stars have fought back in cultivating cultural commentary in their music. (8)
"The 1975"
The 1975 is an alternative British rock band that has gained significant popularity in the U.S., especially for their song “Somebody Else.” For their fourth studio album “Notes on a Conditional Form,” the 1975 enlisted climate activist Greta Thunberg’s vocals in their self-titled song. The background music is minimalistic to draw attention to the powerful lyrics, where Thunberg says “We must acknowledge that we do not have the situation under control and that we do not have all of the solutions yet.” She delivers other empowering words, with windows of hope in grassroots activism, saying at one point “It is now time to rebel.” While the 1975 has not been shy of sharing their political views in their songs in the past, this song has garnered a lot of attention in its speech-like powerful structure and relation to climate advocacy.
ft. Greta Thunberg
Climate Documentary Trailers
"An Inconvenient Truth" is a 2006 documentary film about former U.S. Vice President Al Gore and his advocacy surrounding climate change and educating the public. (Youtube 5)
"Before the Flood" is a 2016 documentary film spotlighting actor Leonardo DiCaprio and his encounters and meetings with scientists, political leaders, etc. to discuss the threat of climate change. (Youtube 6)
"Cowspiracy" is a 2014 documentary film about environmentalist Kip Anderson, and his thirst to uncover the truth surrounding the meat industry and the major companies and nonprofits who fail to address the meat industry's overwhelming contribution to the climate crisis. (Youtube 7)
"Tomorrow" is a 2015 documentary film about two filmmakers who travel the world to discover the regional challenges of climate change in 10 different countries. It focuses on a constructive approach to dealing with these challenges that are arranged in 5 narrative chapters. (Youtube 8)
"The Story of Plastic" is a 2019 documentary film about the destruction and environmental damage that occurs through the use of plastic by big companies. It features interviews with leading experts, and details the global movement that is fighting against the mass of plastic present in the world's oceans. (Youtube 9)
"Climate Refugees" is a 2010 documentary film that examines environmental justice issues in relation to overpopulation in countries who have an accompanying lack of resources. (Youtube 10)