Virunga is a gripping documentary that delves deep into the efforts to protect the endangered mountain gorillas in the Congo’s Virunga National Park. If you were captivated by Virunga’s compelling narrative and stunning visuals, here are 15 other movies that will resonate with you. These films span genres from documentaries to dramas, each offering a unique perspective on conservation, wildlife, and the human spirit.
1. The Ivory Game
The Ivory Game is a powerful documentary that exposes the dark world of ivory trafficking. Directed by Richard Ladkani and Kief Davidson, the film follows a team of activists, rangers, and undercover operatives as they work to stop the poaching of elephants.
2. Blackfish
Blackfish is a documentary that reveals the controversial captivity of killer whales at SeaWorld. Directed by Gabriela Cowperthwaite, it focuses on Tilikum, an orca involved in the deaths of several trainers, and features interviews with former SeaWorld trainers.
3. The Cove
The Cove is an Oscar-winning documentary directed by Louie Psihoyos that uncovers the horrifying dolphin hunting practices in Taiji, Japan. The film stars Ric O’Barry, a former dolphin trainer turned activist.
4. Racing Extinction
Racing Extinction is a documentary by Louie Psihoyos that highlights the ongoing mass extinction of species caused by human activity. The film features a team of artists and activists working to bring attention to this critical issue.
5. Gorillas in the Mist
Gorillas in the Mist is a biographical drama about Dian Fossey, a naturalist who studied and protected mountain gorillas in Rwanda. Starring Sigourney Weaver, the film is based on Fossey’s own autobiographical work.
6. March of the Penguins
March of the Penguins is a nature documentary that follows the annual journey of emperor penguins in Antarctica. Narrated by Morgan Freeman, the film captures the harsh conditions and incredible endurance of these remarkable birds.
7. Jane
Jane is a documentary that explores the life and work of Jane Goodall, the renowned primatologist. Directed by Brett Morgen, the film features never-before-seen footage from Goodall’s early research in Tanzania.
8. Born to be Wild
Born to be Wild is a heartwarming documentary that follows orphaned orangutans and elephants and the people who rescue and raise them. Narrated by Morgan Freeman, the film showcases the efforts of dedicated caregivers in Borneo and Kenya.
9. Chasing Coral
Chasing Coral is a documentary that dives into the devastating effects of coral bleaching on the world’s coral reefs. Directed by Jeff Orlowski, the film features stunning underwater footage and interviews with marine biologists.
10. Our Planet
Our Planet is a documentary series that showcases the natural world’s beauty and fragility. Narrated by David Attenborough, the series highlights the impact of climate change on various ecosystems around the globe.
11. An Inconvenient Truth
An Inconvenient Truth is a documentary featuring former U.S. Vice President Al Gore, who presents a compelling case for the dangers of global warming. Directed by Davis Guggenheim, the film won two Academy Awards.
12. The Elephant Queen
The Elephant Queen is a documentary that follows the journey of a majestic elephant named Athena and her herd. Narrated by Chiwetel Ejiofor, the film captures the challenges and triumphs of these incredible creatures.
13. Before the Flood
Before the Flood is a documentary that explores the impact of climate change through the eyes of actor and activist Leonardo DiCaprio. Directed by Fisher Stevens, the film features interviews with scientists, politicians, and environmentalists.
14. The Serengeti Rules
The Serengeti Rules is a documentary that follows a group of pioneering scientists who discovered a set of rules that govern the natural world. Directed by Nicolas Brown, the film highlights their groundbreaking research and its implications for conservation.
15. Earth
Earth is a documentary that takes viewers on a breathtaking journey across the planet, showcasing its diverse landscapes and wildlife. Narrated by Patrick Stewart, the film captures the beauty and wonder of our natural world.