6 films about climate and activism
Are you looking for more films about climate and activism after the On Tour film Deep Rising? We tip six films that explore the ravages of climate change and show the unyielding spirit of activists fighting against powerful economic interests. 29 January, 2024
The documentary Deep Rising reveals the detrimental impact of deep-sea mining on our environment, ecosystems and various indigenous communities. This film offers a fascinating exploration of the geopolitical, business and scientific forces behind the extraction of metals from the ocean floor. These metals are essential for today’s electric battery technology. As companies shift their investments from oil and gas to deep-sea mining, Deep Rising calls for reflection on why we should prioritise renewable resources to meet our growing energy needs. The film poignantly reminds us that the seabed is humanity’s shared heritage, and highlights the urgent need to make responsible decisions for future generations.
Climate and activism at the Movies that Matter Festival
Movies that Matter has screened numerous films dealing with climate issues and activism over the years. These films, with their compelling stories and visually impressive narratives, explore the complexity of the struggle against powerful economic interests. From the front lines of protests to the heart of pristine landscapes, filmmakers use their cameras to capture both the devastation caused by climate change and the indomitable spirit of those determined to protect their country.
Check out our tip list for more inspiring films
We have compiled a list of streamable films* screened at our festival that highlight the topic of climate and activism from different perspectives and countries. These films provoke thought, challenge us to consider our role in the fight for a sustainable future and call for action against one of the biggest challenges of our time.
*Some films may not be available through the links above if you are outside the Netherlands.
-
Anote's Ark
Matthieu Rytz | MtMF18 | Vimeo on Demand
In Oceania, situated in one of the world’s remotest locations, the island nation of Kiribati faces serious jeopardy: the lives of people and animals are threatened by the rapidly rising sea levels caused by climate change. President Tong is engaged in a race against the clock to bring his people to safety.
-
The Borneo Case
Erik Pauser, Dylan Williams | MtMF17 | Vimeo on Demand
Poignant documentary about how the world's oldest rainforest has been felled piece by piece to make way for dams and palm oil plantations. The filmmakers filmed the clearcutting over a period of 25 years and followed activist Mutang during that time. He grew up in the jungle and has campaigned for years against the logging and the corrupt government of Malaysia.
-
How to Blow Up a Pipeline
Daniel Goldhaber | MtMF23 | Pathé Thuis
A group of young environmental activists, all with very different stories, prepare to blow up a Texas oil pipeline. A nail-biting, ingenuously constructed thriller by director Daniel Goldhaber. Based on Andreas Malm’s controversial non-fiction book of the same name, which describes sabotage as a necessary form of climate activism.
-
The Territory
Alex Pritz | MtMF22 | Disney+
The small and shrinking indigenous Uru-eu-wau-wau people in the Amazon are threatened by land grabbers. They choose 18-year-old Bitaté as their leader, and together with activist Neidinha he is determined not to roll over. But when Jair Bolsonaro becomes president, the forces attacking them get free reign.
-
Thank You for the Rain
Julia Dahr | MtMF18 | Dafilms
Five years ago, Kenyan farmer Kisilu started documenting his life with the camera he had been given by Norwegian filmmaker Julia Dahr. The result is a remarkable documentary about the consequences of climate change in his environment.
-
Uma: A Water Crisis In Bolivia
Ana Llacer | MtMF21 | Vimeo On Demand
Three indigenous communities in the Bolivian highlands take on the mining companies polluting their water. They demand compensation and full information, but the miners have the government’s backing and can operate with apparent impunity. A story of resistance, courage, and the fight for environmental justice.
Read more
The Impact of The Territory
The Territory exposes the devastating impact of deforestation while spotlighting the courageous efforts of environmental defenders. In an interview with director Alex Pritz, we delve into the film's vital role in raising awareness and galvanizing action against environmental destruction.
6 film tips about privacy and surveillance
The film screenings of Total Trust in our On Tour programme for the month of November have ended. However, the film’s interpretation of the dangers of surveillance technology and the violation of privacy is more relevant than ever.
8 film tips to better understand the situation in Israel and Palestine
As long as our festival exists, we have been seeing and showing films about Israel and Palestine. To better understand the events of the past few weeks, it is important to know the context and history. To provide some insight into this, we have made a selection of films that were previously shown at our festival and that can still be viewed online.