It's Earth Day - Top 10 Movies About Nature

Hey there, it's Earth Day 2024!

At Psylo, we're thrilled to celebrate this special day with you. Earth is our home, we love it, and we want to protect it.

(by the way, have you seen our promotion dedicated to Earth Day? - 10% ON A SELECTION OF PRODUCTS AND DOUBLE LOYALTY POINTS!)

For this occasion, we've selected 10 films that will move you with their poetic portrayal of nature and offer thought-provoking insights into our relationship with it.

Whether you're an avid hiker, a backpacker, or simply love strolling through parks, these films will inspire you to live more sustainably.

Must-Watch Films for an Eco-Conscious Earth Day

Grab a cozy spot on the couch, pop some popcorn, and immerse yourself in these captivating stories.

1. Into the Wild

A powerful and moving film that tells the story of Christopher McCandless, a young man who decides to give up everything and live in solitude in the Alaskan wilderness. The breathtaking shots of snow-covered landscapes and McCandless's touching story will captivate nature lovers and encourage reflection on the meaning of life.

2. Nomadland

This intimate and poetic film follows Fern, a woman who, after losing everything in the Great Recession, decides to become a nomad and travel across America in a van. The beauty of the American landscapes and Fern's life philosophy, based on freedom and simplicity, will inspire travel enthusiasts and those who embrace unconventional living.

3. Captain Fantastic

Fun and thought-provoking, this film tells the story of a father who raised his six children in an alternative way, teaching them to live independently and in harmony with nature. Set amidst the Pacific Northwest woods, the father's unconventional educational approach will make you reflect on the importance of family, education, and respect for the environment.

4. The Biggest Little Farm

A heartwarming documentary that chronicles the story of John and Molly Chester, a couple who transformed a barren plot of land into a thriving organic farm teeming with biodiversity. The evocative imagery of the farm and John and Molly's tale of tenacity and passion will inspire nature lovers and staunch supporters of sustainable agriculture.

5. My Octopus Teacher

Another documentary, this time exploring the unusual friendship between a scuba diver and an octopus. The stunning underwater cinematography and the profound connection that develops between the man and the animal will leave you speechless as you discover the unimaginable intelligence of animals and the importance of preserving marine life.

6. Baraka

A visually stunning non-narrative documentary film directed by Ron Fricke. Released in 1992, it's known for its breathtaking cinematography, shot in 24 countries across six continents. The film explores various aspects of human life, nature, and spirituality, presenting a collage of stunning imagery set to a mesmerising musical score by Dead Can Dance. "Baraka" serves as a meditation on the beauty and diversity of the world, as well as a reflection on humanity's impact on the planet. It's often praised for its artistic approach and its ability to evoke deep emotions and contemplation in viewers.

7. Home

Directed by Yann Arthus-Bertrand and released in 2009, the film offers an aerial view of Earth, showcasing the beauty of our planet while also highlighting the environmental challenges it faces. Through breathtaking cinematography and thought-provoking narration, "Home" explores issues such as deforestation, pollution, and climate change. It aims to raise awareness about the fragile state of our planet and the urgent need for environmental conservation. The film encourages viewers to reconsider their relationship with the Earth and take action to protect it for future generations.

8. La Belle Verte (The Green Beautiful)

A French comedy/sci-fi film directed by Coline Serreau, released in 1996. The story revolves around a society of highly evolved beings who live on a utopian planet where they have transcended materialism and live in harmony with nature. One of these beings, Mila, decides to visit Earth to observe human civilisation. Through her interactions with humans, she offers a humorous and thought-provoking critique of modern society, consumerism, and environmental degradation. The film blends satire with a message of hope and the possibility of positive change, inviting viewers to reflect on their own values and lifestyles.

9. Microcosmos

A mesmerising documentary film released in 1996, directed by Claude Nuridsany and Marie Pérennou. The film offers an intimate and visually stunning exploration of the insect world, capturing the intricate details of insect life through close-up cinematography. Without narration, the film allows viewers to observe the beauty and complexity of insects' daily activities, interactions, and struggles for survival. Through breathtaking visuals and immersive sound design, "Microcosmos" invites audiences to appreciate the often-overlooked wonders of the natural world on a small scale.

10. Leave No Trace

A 2018 drama film directed by Debra Granik, based on the novel "My Abandonment" by Peter Rock, which is based on a true story. It follows a father and daughter, Will (played by Ben Foster) and Tom (played by Thomasin McKenzie), who live off the grid in the forests of Oregon. They are discovered by authorities and forced to reintegrate into society, challenging their deep-rooted desire for solitude and independence. The film explores themes of family, resilience, and the impact of trauma, as well as the struggle to find a sense of belonging in a world that often feels overwhelming. Through subtle and powerful performances, "Leave No Trace" offers a poignant and thought-provoking meditation on the complexities of human connection and the beauty of the natural world.

Some more ideas

In addition to these 10 films, there are many other titles worth mentioning, such as "Honeyland", "Gunda", and "The River". The choice of the perfect film will depend on your personal taste and the type of experience you wish to have.

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Banner image by Jakob Owens via Unsplash