In an era where environmental challenges are more pressing than ever, documentaries serve as a vital medium for raising awareness and inspiring action. These films not only highlight the urgent issues facing our planet but also spotlight the courageous individuals and communities fighting for justice and sustainability.
Docuseek
The Illusion of Abundance
This documentary follows indigenous climate activists as they confront the harsh realities of global development. They seek justice against transnational corporations that have poisoned their lands, revealing the dangerous impact of corporate greed. With around 200 activists losing their lives annually in this struggle, the film emphasizes the urgent need for environmental justice.
Read our full review of The Illusion of Abundance.
Green Planet Films
Jaguar People (Tigre Gente)
This powerful documentary highlights the battle between indigenous people in Bolivia and wildlife traffickers. It focuses on two characters: a park ranger determined to protect jaguars from poachers and an investigative journalist trying to uncover the illegal trade of jaguar parts to China. The film paints a compelling picture of the challenges faced by indigenous communities and conservationists as they confront the forces of greed and exploitation.
Read our full review of Jaguar People (Tigre Gente).
Video Project
Angel of Alabama
Angel of Alabama tells the story of Brenda Hampton, an investigator uncovering decades of environmental pollution in Lawrence County, Alabama. Prompted by her mother’s health crisis linked to contaminated water, Brenda's investigation reveals illegal dumping by local manufacturers, including 3M. Despite facing intimidation, she leads her community to demand justice, ultimately achieving a permanent water solution and raising awareness about the dangers of "forever chemicals."
Read our full review for Angel of Alabama.
New Day Films
Stewards of the Land: Serán las Dueñas de la Tierra
This documentary follows the lives of Stephanie, Ian, and Alfredo, three determined ecological farmers in Puerto Rico. Faced with the dual challenges of economic hardship and the looming threat of hurricanes, these landless farmers work tirelessly to produce healthy, local food in a U.S. territory that heavily depends on imports. Their story is one of resilience, innovation, and the belief that food sovereignty can be achieved against all odds. The film underscores the environmental and social challenges of farming without land ownership or capital, making it a compelling watch for those interested in agricultural justice.
Read our full review of Stewards of the Land: Serán las Dueñas de la Tierra.
Come Hell or High Water: The Battle for Turkey Creek
This powerful documentary tells the story of Derrick Evans, a Mississippi teacher turned environmental activist, as he fights to protect his ancestral community of Turkey Creek. Under threat from unchecked urban development, Turkey Creek, a historic African American settlement, faces severe environmental degradation. The film explores issues of environmental racism, community resilience, and the power of grassroots movements in the fight for environmental justice.
Read the full review of Come Hell or High Water: The Battle for Turkey Creek.
Lost World | Fight for Areng Valley
Fight for Areng Valley documents the struggle of indigenous communities to protect their land from a destructive hydroelectric dam project. The film showcases the deep connection between the people and their environment, highlighting the devastating impacts that development can have on fragile ecosystems and traditional ways of life. The Areng Valley serves as a battleground for the larger fight against unsustainable development practices that threaten both cultural heritage and biodiversity.
Read our full review of Lost World | Fight for Areng Valley
Video Project
Duty of Care
Duty of Care follows Roger Cox, a pioneering lawyer who successfully sued both a government and an oil giant, establishing legal precedents that deem catastrophic climate change illegal. This documentary provides an insider's look at the landmark cases against the Dutch government and Royal Dutch Shell, demonstrating the power of the law in holding corporations accountable for their impact on the environment.
Read our full review of Duty of Care.
Collective Eye Films
Lions, Bones, and Bullets
This documentary delves into the controversial practices of trophy hunting and wildlife exploitation in Africa. It features voices from conservationists, activists, and local communities affected by these practices, urging viewers to reconsider the ethics of wildlife conservation in the context of economic interests.
Read our full review of Lions, Bones, and Bullets.