Looking for the best Earth Day movies to watch? You'll want to check out these movies!
As Earth Day approaches, it's the perfect time to gather your family and friends to celebrate planet earth and learn about the importance of environmental conservation. There's no better way to do this than by watching a few inspiring movies that showcase the beauty and fragility of our world.
I've put together an extensive list of the best Earth Day movies for both adults and kids that will entertain, educate, and inspire you to take action to make the world a better place for you and for your kids and grandkids!
Whether you're looking for an award winning documentary or an animated movie, I've got you covered!
Check out these amazing earth day movies and choose one for your next family movie night!
Best Earth Day Movies for Adults
Erin Brockovich (2000)
This inspiring film, based on a true story, follows the tenacious Erin Brockovich (played by Julia Roberts) as she uncovers corporate pollution and fights for justice on behalf of a community affected by contaminated water. It's a great Earth Day movie that demonstrates the power of individual action in protecting the environment and holding corporations accountable for their actions.
The Biggest Little Farm (2018)
This heartwarming documentary follows a couple, John and Molly Chester, as they transform a barren piece of land into a thriving, biodiverse farm. Over eight years, the film documents their journey to create a sustainable, regenerative agriculture system that works in harmony with nature. The Biggest Little Farm is an excellent Earth Day pick, showcasing the power and potential of eco-friendly practices in modern farming.
Chasing Coral (2017)
This Netflix original documentary showcases the beauty, importance, and vulnerability of coral reefs. With breathtaking underwater footage, the film follows a team of divers, scientists, and photographers as they document the disappearance of coral reefs due to climate change and ocean acidification. Chasing Coral is an excellent choice for Earth Day, inspiring viewers to appreciate and protect these critical marine ecosystems.
An Inconvenient Truth (2006)
This groundbreaking documentary follows former US Vice President Al Gore as he raises public awareness about climate change. Through a series of compelling presentations and expert interviews, the film explores the scientific evidence and consequences of global warming. On Earth Day, it's essential to understand the impact of human activity on the environment, and An Inconvenient Truth provides a clear and informative starting point.
The True Cost (2015)
The True Cost is an eye-opening documentary that examines the environmental and social impact of the fashion industry. It reveals the hidden costs of fast fashion, including water pollution, textile waste, and exploitative labor practices. On Earth Day, this film encourages viewers to consider the consequences of their clothing choices and adopt more sustainable, ethical alternatives.
The Cove (2009)
The Cove is an Oscar-winning documentary that exposes the brutal dolphin hunting practices in Taiji, Japan. Through a combination of hidden cameras, activism, and investigative journalism, the film raises awareness about the dangers of overfishing, marine pollution, and the importance of ocean conservation. It's a powerful film to watch on Earth Day, reminding us of our responsibility to protect marine life.
The 11th Hour (2007)
Narrated and produced by Leonardo DiCaprio, The 11th Hour delves into the critical state of our planet and the actions we must take to save it. The film covers topics like deforestation, climate change, renewable energy, and biodiversity loss, featuring interviews with experts and activists. It's a thought-provoking Earth Day watch that encourages viewers to consider their role in addressing these pressing environmental challenges.
Before The Flood (2016)
Produced by and featuring Leonardo DiCaprio, Before The Flood explores the effects of climate change on our planet and presents potential solutions. The film takes viewers on a global journey, documenting the impacts of a changing climate and the efforts of individuals and communities working to address this crisis. It's an inspiring choice for Earth Day, encouraging viewers to take action and protect the environment.
The Day After Tomorrow (2004)
This sci-fi disaster film imagines a world facing an extreme climate shift, resulting from human-induced global warming. While the catastrophic events depicted are fictional, the film serves as a thought-provoking reminder of the potential consequences of ignoring climate change. It's a dramatic and visually captivating Earth Day watch that encourages viewers to take environmental issues seriously.
Home (2009)
This visually stunning documentary, narrated by Glenn Close, offers a bird's-eye view of Earth, highlighting its beauty, fragility, and the interconnectedness of all living things. The film examines the delicate balance of our planet's ecosystems and the urgent need for environmental stewardship. With its breathtaking imagery and thought-provoking message, Home is a great Earth Day choice that encourages viewers to appreciate and protect our planet.
Avatar (2009)
This epic sci-fi film, directed by James Cameron, transports viewers to the alien world of Pandora, where the indigenous Na'vi people struggle to protect their land from human exploitation. The movie explores themes of environmentalism, colonialism, and the importance of protecting natural resources. Avatar's breathtaking visuals and powerful message of respecting nature and its inhabitants make it an appropriate and inspiring film to watch on Earth Day.
Earth Day Movies for Kids:
While there are lots of great movies listed above, they're not all a great choice for younger viewers. So thought I'd put together a list of movies that your whole family can enjoy together.
These movies still environmental themes, but I chose movies that younger kids would enjoy. While some of these movies are animated and some feature fun songs, I think they're movies that kids of all ages would enjoy!
The Lorax (2012)
Based on the beloved Dr. Seuss book, this animated film tells the story of the Lorax, a grumpy yet charming character, who fights to protect his world from environmental destruction caused by the greedy Once-ler. The Lorax's tale serves as a cautionary lesson about the importance of preserving nature and the consequences of unchecked industrialization. It's an entertaining and educational movie for kids on Earth Day, inspiring them to care for the environment.
FernGully: The Last Rainforest (1992)
In this animated fantasy film, a group of magical creatures fight to save their rainforest home from deforestation caused by humans. As the story unfolds, the film introduces children to the concept of environmental conservation and the importance of preserving Earth's delicate ecosystems. With its enchanting characters and meaningful message, FernGully is a great Earth Day movie for kids.
WALL-E (2008)
In this heartwarming Pixar film, a small waste-collecting robot named WALL-E inadvertently embarks on a journey that could determine the fate of Earth. Set in a future where consumerism and waste have led to an uninhabitable planet, the movie highlights the importance of environmental stewardship and the consequences of neglecting our planet. WALL-E is a great Earth Day watch for kids, teaching valuable lessons about responsibility and sustainability.
Over the Hedge (2006)
This fun and engaging animated film follows a group of woodland animals as they try to adapt to the encroachment of suburban development on their habitat. The movie provides a light-hearted look at the challenges faced by wildlife in the face of human expansion, teaching kids about the importance of coexisting with nature and protecting the environment. Over the Hedge is an entertaining and educational Earth Day pick for children.
Finding Nemo (2003)
This beloved Pixar film tells the story of a clownfish named Marlin as he embarks on a journey to find his son Nemo. Along the way, viewers are introduced to the wonders and perils of the ocean, showcasing the beauty of marine life and the importance of ocean conservation. Finding Nemo is a captivating and educational choice for kids on Earth Day, inspiring them to appreciate and protect our oceans.
If you decide to watch this movie, I highly recommend making these Finding Nemo Rice Krispie Treats to go along with it.
Happy Feet (2006)
Set in Antarctica, this animated film follows the adventures of Mumble, a young emperor penguin who is unable to sing but can tap dance. The movie touches upon themes of environmental conservation, as it highlights the impact of overfishing and pollution on the penguin population. Happy Feet is an entertaining and heartwarming Earth Day watch for kids that promotes awareness of the challenges faced by wildlife.
The Iron Giant (1999)
This animated film, set during the Cold War, tells the story of a young boy named Hogarth who befriends a giant alien robot. The Iron Giant explores themes of friendship, understanding, and the importance of protecting our planet from destructive forces. While not explicitly an environmental film, its message of compassion and responsibility makes it a relevant and heartwarming choice for Earth Day, teaching kids to care for the world around them.
A Bug's Life (1998)
This Pixar animated film follows the journey of Flik, an inventive ant, as he tries to save his colony from a group of oppressive grasshoppers. The movie introduces kids to the fascinating world of insects and highlights the importance of teamwork, perseverance, and respecting the natural order. A Bug's Life is an entertaining and educational Earth Day choice for children, fostering an appreciation for the smaller creatures that inhabit our planet.
The Secret of NIMH (1982)
In this animated classic, a field mouse named Mrs. Brisby seeks the help of a society of intelligent rats to save her home from destruction. The film showcases the beauty of the natural world and the challenges faced by wildlife in the face of human intervention. The Secret of NIMH is a captivating and inspiring Earth Day movie for kids, teaching them the value of courage, determination, and protecting their environment.
Fly Away Home (1996)
Based on a true story, this heartwarming film follows a young girl named Amy as she helps a flock of orphaned Canada geese learn to migrate south for the winter. The movie highlights the importance of preserving natural habitats and the interdependence of humans and animals. Fly Away Home is a touching and educational Earth Day choice for children, inspiring them to appreciate and protect the world's diverse wildlife.
March of the Penguins (2005)
This acclaimed nature documentary follows the incredible journey of emperor penguins as they travel across the harsh Antarctic landscape to find a mate and start a family. The film showcases the beauty and resilience of these fascinating creatures while highlighting the impact of climate change on their habitat. March of the Penguins is a captivating and educational Earth Day watch for kids, fostering an appreciation for the natural world and the importance of conservation.
Ice Age (2002)
Set during the prehistoric era, this animated film follows a group of unlikely animal friends as they embark on a journey to return a lost human baby to its family. Along the way, the movie introduces kids to the concept of climate change and its effects on the environment and animal species. Ice Age is an entertaining and educational Earth Day pick for children, encouraging them to learn more about our planet's history and the need to protect it for future generations.
Free Willy (1993)
This heartwarming tells the story of a young boy named Jesse who befriends a captive orca named Willy and becomes determined to help him return to the wild. The movie raises awareness about the ethical treatment of marine animals and the importance of conservation. Free Willy is an inspiring and educational Earth Day choice for kids, teaching them about the value of compassion, determination, and protecting the natural world.
Arctic Tale (2007)
This compelling documentary, narrated by Queen Latifah, follows the lives of a polar bear cub named Nanu and a walrus pup named Seela as they grow up and struggle to survive in the rapidly changing Arctic environment. The film offers an intimate look at the challenges faced by these iconic Arctic animals due to climate change, shrinking sea ice, and the need to adapt to new conditions. Arctic Tale is an excellent Earth Day choice for kids, providing them with a deeper understanding of the impact of global warming on the environment and the importance of taking action to protect our planet's fragile ecosystems.
With an extensive list of Earth Day movies for all ages, there's something for everyone to enjoy and learn from. These films not only entertain but also inspire us to take action and be responsible stewards of our planet. And while I don't agree with everything in all these movies, I still think there is value in watching them and thinking more about how we care for the earth.
So, gather your loved ones, grab some popcorn, and celebrate Earth Day by watching these inspiring earth day movies that will leave you feeling motivated to make a difference in the world around you.
Happy Earth Day!
Also, be sure to check out our Earth Day Coloring Pages!
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