At this year’s Oscars, climate change took center stage not just on the red carpet, but also in the nominated movies. Anna Jane Joyner, the founder of Good Energy, a nonprofit dedicated to incorporating climate themes in mainstream media, analyzed the films hoping to see a reflection of our current reality in them. The results were mixed, with only one film, “The Wild Robot,” passing the Climate Reality Check. This animated movie set in the future where climate change is evident, stood out among the rest.
Breaking the Mold
While “The Wild Robot” was the only Oscar-nominated film that directly tackled climate change, other movies explored climate themes in more metaphorical ways. Sci-fi blockbusters like “Dune: Part Two” and “Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes” touched on climate issues in unique ways. Independent films like “Flow,” a dialogue-less fantasy movie, also delved into climate-related narratives. Despite not receiving Oscar nominations, films like “Twisters” and “The End” offered creative approaches to addressing climate change and its consequences.
The Need for Realism
Anna Jane Joyner emphasized the importance of portraying climate change in movies set in the present day. While fantasy and sci-fi genres have often been used as allegories for climate change, realistic portrayals are essential to fully capture the human experience in the era of climate crisis. Representing current realities in media can help viewers process their own experiences, increase empathy, and inspire action. The Climate Reality Check, inspired by the Bechdel Test, serves as a tool for viewers and creators to track climate representation in film and television.
The Impact of Real Stories
Authentic representation in media can lead to increased awareness and motivate audiences to take action. By showcasing climate change in popular media, storytellers can help viewers relate to the issue and encourage collective action. Recent experiences, such as the devastating L.A. wildfires, have prompted Hollywood creatives to rethink their approach to climate-related narratives. While disaster narratives are prevalent, stories of resilience, community, and cooperation offer a more hopeful and empowering perspective on climate change.
Looking Ahead
As Hollywood continues to explore climate themes in film and television, the focus on community preparedness, resilience, and unity becomes increasingly important. Drawing from personal experiences and real-world events, storytellers can create narratives that resonate with audiences and inspire positive change. The power of storytelling lies in its ability to reflect the complexities of our changing world and provide a sense of connection and hope in the face of adversity. As climate impacts worsen, the need for stories that promote unity, courage, and resilience becomes more crucial than ever.
