World Environment Day: 17 Must-Watch Movies Showcasing Climate in All Its Glory

1. Erin Brockovich 2000，IMDB Rating: 7.4, IMDB Votes: 224069, ID: 0195685
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Erin Brockovich is a compelling drama that showcases the power of determination and the impact of environmental activism. Julia Roberts delivers a stellar performance as the titular character, a legal assistant who uncovers a massive water contamination case. The film highlights the importance of fighting for justice and protecting our environment, making it a must-watch for World Environment Day.
2. The Day After Tomorrow 2004，IMDB Rating: 6.5, IMDB Votes: 480842, ID: 0319262
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The Day After Tomorrow is an intense disaster film that vividly illustrates the potential effects of climate change. Starring Dennis Quaid and Jake Gyllenhaal, the movie depicts a series of catastrophic weather events that plunge the world into a new ice age. Its thrilling narrative and urgent message about global warming make it a gripping watch.
3. Interstellar 2014，IMDB Rating: 8.7, IMDB Votes: 2136841, ID: 0816692
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Christopher Nolan’s ‘Interstellar’ is a visually stunning sci-fi epic that explores the dire consequences of climate change. The film’s depiction of a dying Earth, plagued by dust storms and failing crops, serves as a stark warning about the potential future of our planet. The emotional journey of the characters, combined with the breathtaking visuals and thought-provoking themes, makes ‘Interstellar’ a must-watch for anyone concerned about the environment.
4. Seaspiracy 2021，IMDB Rating: 8.1, IMDB Votes: 34370, ID: 14152756
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‘Seaspiracy’ is a hard-hitting documentary that exposes the devastating impact of the fishing industry on our oceans. The film’s shocking revelations about overfishing, plastic pollution, and the destruction of marine ecosystems are both eye-opening and deeply disturbing. Despite its one-sided approach, ‘Seaspiracy’ succeeds in raising awareness about the urgent need to protect our oceans and the creatures that inhabit them.
5. The Alpinist 2021，IMDB Rating: 7.9, IMDB Votes: 14769, ID: 11790780
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‘The Alpinist’ is a breathtaking documentary that follows the incredible feats of climber Marc-André Leclerc. While the film primarily focuses on Leclerc’s daring ascents, it also highlights the impact of climate change on the world’s mountains. The stunning cinematography and Leclerc’s awe-inspiring achievements make ‘The Alpinist’ a thrilling and thought-provoking watch.
6. Dark Waters 2019，IMDB Rating: 7.6, IMDB Votes: 106711, ID: 9071322
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‘Dark Waters’ is a gripping legal thriller that tells the true story of attorney Rob Bilott’s battle against the DuPont chemical company. The film’s portrayal of the devastating effects of chemical pollution on a small town’s water supply is both harrowing and inspiring. Mark Ruffalo’s powerful performance and the film’s unflinching examination of corporate greed make ‘Dark Waters’ a must-see for anyone concerned about environmental justice.
7. A Civil Action 1998，IMDB Rating: 6.6, IMDB Votes: 31270, ID: 0120633
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‘A Civil Action’ is a compelling legal drama that explores the complexities of environmental litigation. The film’s depiction of attorney Jan Schlichtmann’s fight against two large corporations responsible for contaminating a town’s water supply is both riveting and thought-provoking. John Travolta’s strong performance and the film’s exploration of the moral and ethical dilemmas faced by lawyers make ‘A Civil Action’ a powerful and engaging watch.
8. An Inconvenient Truth 2006，IMDB Rating: 7.4, IMDB Votes: 85416, ID: 0497116
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Al Gore’s ‘An Inconvenient Truth’ is a powerful wake-up call that vividly illustrates the dire consequences of climate change. The documentary’s compelling visuals and Gore’s passionate narration make it an essential watch for anyone concerned about our planet’s future. Despite some criticisms of its alarmist tone, the film’s message remains urgent and relevant, urging immediate action to combat global warming.
9. Before the Flood 2016，IMDB Rating: 8.2, IMDB Votes: 29001, ID: 5929776
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Leonardo DiCaprio’s ‘Before the Flood’ is a star-studded documentary that explores the devastating effects of climate change. The film’s global perspective and high-profile interviews make it a compelling watch, though some critics argue it lacks a distinct voice. Nevertheless, its urgent call to action and stunning visuals make it a significant contribution to environmental awareness.
10. The 11th Hour 2007，IMDB Rating: 7.2, IMDB Votes: 5927, ID: 0492931
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‘The 11th Hour,’ narrated by Leonardo DiCaprio, is a sobering documentary that highlights the critical state of our environment. The film’s extensive interviews with experts and its stark portrayal of environmental degradation make it a must-watch. While some may find it overly didactic, its message about the urgent need for change is clear and compelling.
11. Chasing Ice 2012，IMDB Rating: 7.7, IMDB Votes: 8888, ID: 1579361
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‘Chasing Ice’ is a visually stunning documentary that captures the rapid melting of glaciers. The film’s breathtaking time-lapse photography and the dedication of its protagonist, James Balog, make it an unforgettable viewing experience. It’s a poignant reminder of the tangible impacts of climate change, making it a must-see for environmental enthusiasts.
12. The Cove 2009，IMDB Rating: 8.4, IMDB Votes: 51654, ID: 1313104
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‘The Cove’ is a gripping documentary that exposes the brutal dolphin hunts in Taiji, Japan. The film’s covert operations and shocking footage make it a thrilling yet heartbreaking watch. Its powerful message about animal rights and environmental conservation resonates deeply, making it an essential film for World Environment Day.
13. Cowspiracy: The Sustainability Secret 2014，IMDB Rating: 8.1, IMDB Votes: 26708, ID: 3302820
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Cowspiracy: The Sustainability Secret is a provocative documentary that delves into the environmental impact of animal agriculture. The film exposes the hidden truths behind the industry’s contribution to deforestation, water pollution, and climate change. While some critics argue that the documentary uses misleading statistics, it undeniably raises awareness about the urgent need for sustainable food practices. The film’s strength lies in its ability to challenge viewers to reconsider their dietary choices and their impact on the planet.
14. Our Planet 2019，IMDB Rating: 9.3, IMDB Votes: 52387, ID: 9253866
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Our Planet is a visually stunning documentary series narrated by David Attenborough that showcases the beauty and fragility of Earth’s ecosystems. The series highlights the devastating effects of climate change on wildlife and habitats, urging viewers to take action to protect our planet. The breathtaking cinematography and powerful storytelling make it a must-watch for nature enthusiasts and environmental advocates alike. Despite its heavy themes, Our Planet inspires hope and a sense of responsibility towards preserving our natural world.
15. Planet Earth 2006，IMDB Rating: 9.4, IMDB Votes: 221793, ID: 0795176
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Planet Earth is a groundbreaking nature documentary series that takes viewers on an awe-inspiring journey through the world’s diverse habitats. Narrated by David Attenborough, the series captures the beauty and complexity of our planet’s ecosystems. The high-definition footage and meticulous attention to detail set a new standard for nature documentaries. Planet Earth not only educates viewers about the wonders of the natural world but also emphasizes the importance of conservation efforts to protect these fragile environments.
16. Okja 2017，IMDB Rating: 7.3, IMDB Votes: 133197, ID: 3967856
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Okja is a heart-wrenching tale that explores the dark side of industrialized meat production and its environmental impact. The film follows a young girl, Mija, and her genetically engineered super pig, Okja, as they fight against a powerful corporation. Director Bong Joon-ho masterfully blends action, humor, and social commentary, making the audience question their own consumption habits. The film’s portrayal of corporate greed and environmental degradation is both compelling and disturbing, leaving a lasting impression.
17. Snowpiercer 2013，IMDB Rating: 7.1, IMDB Votes: 392638, ID: 1706620
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Snowpiercer is a gripping dystopian thriller set in a post-apocalyptic world where a failed climate experiment has frozen the Earth. The last remnants of humanity survive on a perpetually moving train, divided by class. The film’s stark depiction of social inequality and environmental collapse is both chilling and thought-provoking. Director Bong Joon-ho’s visionary storytelling and the film’s intense action sequences make it a must-watch for fans of sci-fi and climate fiction.