This upcoming Autumn Term of filmmaking classes at Sparks Film School, our new theme will be We Are the World.
Young filmmakers will produce films about the environment, exploring environmental dramatic action and documentary filmmaking techniques.
For Inspiration: 10 Films About the Environment
Here are 10 family friendly films about the environment – both beloved and surprising. If you have a budding filmmaker and/or environmentalist, or if you’re looking into include some film in the classroom, then take a look below for some watchlist inspiration!
To find out more about our filmmaking classes for young filmmakers and to book a free trial, please see here.
1: Wall-E (2008)
Pixar’s charming robot shows us a desolate Earth abandoned due to pollution and overconsumption. It’s a powerful, gentle story about environmental neglect and hope for renewal.
2. FernGully: The Last Rainforest (1992)
A rainforest fairy and a human logger team up to stop a pollution-spewing monster. This animated classic introduces kids to deforestation and the importance of protecting nature.
3. The Lorax (2012)
Based on Dr. Seuss’s book, this vibrant tale delivers a strong message about corporate greed and environmental destruction, all wrapped in a fun, musical package.
4. Happy Feet (2006)
Set in Antarctica, this film uses the story of a tap-dancing penguin to subtly highlight overfishing and climate threats to marine ecosystems.
5. March of The Penguins (2005)
This stunning documentary follows the epic journey of emperor penguins, showing how fragile life is in extreme environments already threatened by climate change.
6. Rio (2011)
While mostly a fun adventure, Rio brings attention to illegal wildlife trade and deforestation in the Amazon, home to some of the planet’s most biodiverse ecosystems.
7. Moana (2016)
Set on a Polynesian island, Moana beautifully reflects on the balance between people and nature, including how environmental imbalance can affect entire communities.
8. Over The Hedge (2006)
A group of forest animals wake up to find their habitat replaced by suburbia. This funny, family-friendly tale shows how urban sprawl impacts wildlife.
9. The Boy Who Harnessed The Wind (2019)
Based on a true story, this inspiring film follows a Malawian boy who builds a wind turbine to save his village from drought and famine. It’s ideal for older kids and teens.
10. Ice Age: The Meltdown (2006)
While full of laughs, this sequel sneaks in a climate message as melting glaciers threaten the animal kingdom. It’s a light way to introduce global warming concepts.
Coming Soon: Films About the Environment – Part 2
Keep an eye out for our next instalment of film suggestions, featuring even more films about the environment.
We’ll also be updating the blog with updates from the Sparks Film School crew members taking part in We Are the World, where we’ll share details on their next environmentally themed film productions!
